Stephen A. Smith didn’t hold back on Monday morning’s broadcast of First Take. While discussing the Memphis Grizzlies’ surprising decision to trade Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic, Smith suggested the franchise might be facing bigger issues than just roster moves. According to him, some NBA stars simply don’t feel safe playing in Memphis.
“You gonna tell folks why nobody wants to be in Memphis? Or you want me to do it?” Smith said on air. “Cats like Jimmy Butler and others don’t feel like it’s the safest environment. I’m talking to the local authorities in Memphis.” That line hit hard, and it sparked immediate reactions online.
The timing of the claim raised eyebrows. Just hours earlier, Memphis dealt Bane to the Magic in a significant move that brought back Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, and four unprotected first-round picks. The trade, viewed by some as a retooling effort rather than a rebuild, still left fans wondering why the Grizzlies would move their best shooter when Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. remain the team’s top players.
Bigger Questions Beyond Basketball
Smith’s comments pushed the conversation beyond basketball. He implied a pattern of unease among players regarding the city’s environment, specifically citing interactions with law enforcement. While no other NBA figures have gone public with similar concerns, Smith’s platform and influence gave weight to the suggestion.
"You gonna tell folks why nobody wants to be in Memphis? Or you want me to do it?"
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) June 17, 2025
"Cats like Jimmy Butler and others don’t feel like it’s the safest environment. I’m talking to the local authorities in Memphis." – Stephen A. Smith pic.twitter.com/qD9UjV5ZV4
At the same time, ESPN’s Tim Bontemps reported the Grizzlies have no plans to trade either Morant or Jackson this summer. Instead, the front office focuses on flexibility and clearing space for a long-term extension with Jackson. However, Smith’s remarks may force team leadership to address issues that go well beyond cap space and roster fits.
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The Grizzlies now face a complicated summer. Not only are they trying to build around their two stars and find shooting to replace Bane, they’re also caught in a national narrative about player comfort and safety. Whether Memphis responds directly or not, the spotlight is already there — and it’s not just about basketball anymore.
