The NBA Finals are heating up, and not just on the court. ESPN personalities are now trading barbs after Pat McAfee's courtside antics during Game 3 in Indianapolis. Former Oklahoma City Thunder star and current ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins has publicly called for McAfee to tone down his over-the-top enthusiasm, especially when it comes to hyping up crowds in arenas that aren't in Oklahoma City.
McAfee, the former NFL punter turned media mogul, has become known for his boisterous and unfiltered style. His show, "The Pat McAfee Show," airs on ESPN, ESPN+, and YouTube, and he also serves as a commentator for WWE's "Monday Night Raw." During Game 3 of the NBA Finals, McAfee took to the court with a microphone, riling up the Indiana crowd and even taking playful jabs at fellow ESPN colleague Stephen A. Smith.
Perkins, never one to shy away from expressing his opinion, responded on ESPN, stating, "By the way, Pat McAfee, in OKC, we don't need nobody on the mic to get them hyped. They're gonna be hyped. That building is gonna be rocking." This wasn't the first time Perkins has taken issue with McAfee's approach. In 2023, Perkins criticized McAfee's show for mocking NBA trade rumors and dramatizing locker room culture.
The dynamic between McAfee and Perkins highlights a clash of styles within ESPN. McAfee's brash and often irreverent style contrasts with Perkins' more traditional, player-centric perspective. While McAfee's energy can electrify a crowd and generate buzz, Perkins values authenticity and respect for basketball culture, especially from those who haven't played the game at the highest level.
McAfee's move to ESPN in 2023 was a significant deal, reportedly valued at $85 million over five years. His show has brought a new audience to the network, but his presence hasn't been without controversy. Recently, it was reported that McAfee had "essentially banned" Adam Schefter, one of ESPN's top NFL insiders, from appearing on his show due to a scheduling conflict. Though Schefter's "banishment" seems to be coming to an end.
Despite the criticism, McAfee remains a popular figure in sports media. His ability to connect with audiences and create memorable moments is undeniable. However, as he continues to expand his reach, he may need to consider the impact of his antics on his colleagues and the broader sports landscape.
The NBA Finals series between the Indiana Pacers and the Oklahoma City Thunder is now tied 2-2, adding fuel to the fire between McAfee and Perkins. Whether McAfee will heed Perkins' advice remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the battle for attention and influence within ESPN is just as intense as the competition on the court.
