NBA analyst Kenny Smith addressed the recent backlash over his comments regarding WNBA star Sabrina Ionescu during the NBA All-Star weekend. Smith insisted that his remarks were meant to advocate for Ionescu rather than demean her, stating that the controversy was blown out of proportion. The debate sparked during a three-point contest between Ionescu and NBA superstar Steph Curry, where Smith suggested Ionescu should have shot from the women's three-point line. Despite criticism from sports columnists and fellow colleague Reggie Miller, Smith defended his position, citing basketball's reliance on muscle memory and different practice ranges. He further clarified that his comments were not meant to be disrespectful towards Ionescu and emphasized that he was promoting fairness in competition. Smith also addressed Miller's claim of wanting Ionescu "to be playing with dolls," attributing it to humor and reiterated his support for gender equality in sports. In response to the scrutiny, Smith maintained that his track record in basketball speaks for itself and dismissed any accusations of undermining Ionescu's talents.