Kobe, Shaq situation compared to Kevin Durant decision

There has been no shortage of reaction to the news of Kevin Durant‘s decision to join the Golden State Warriors. While some applaud the decision, others see it as an easy way out. After all, Durant is joining an already stacked championship team. Also, it's the same team that beat him and the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference Finals just two months ago. Because of that, the decision has been called “cowardly.” Harsh.

ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith used that word and then some, when expressing his “digust” with Durant's decision. Calling it “the weakest move I've ever seen by a superstar.” Many have found issue with Smith's comments, and R&B singer Tank, took to instagram with a response to Smith.

Let's get one thing straight! I'm only kinda mad cause the Warriors are stacking up against my team. That's it! As far as a successful black man making the best decision for him and his family I support @easymoneysniper (#128175#)!! Burning that mans jersey after he gave you 9 years of everything he had! Brough something to a city that basically had nothing! Senseless and tasteless! Thank God the OKC organization has class and the upmost respect for this man. @stephenasmith stop tearing down our heroes! Stop painting a negative picture of those who decide to take destiny in their own hands. The game has controlled players for so long and now the players are starting to understand their value! Play however long God allows, play where ever God allows, and get all the money He's made room for your gift to receive!.. #Respect

A photo posted by Tank (@therealtank) on Jul 4, 2016 at 4:36pm PDT

Tank followed that post with a very interesting comparison involving Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'neal. Two legends that Stephen A. Smith has always shown the utmost respect. Although Tank specializes in music, he obviously knows his history. Karl Malone and Gary Payton joined Shaquille and Kobe as members of the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2003-04 season. Even though Payton and Malone were supposed to make the Lakers a “super team”, they lost to the Detroit Pistons in the 2004 NBA finals.

Anybody remember this? Were any of these men cowards? Are any of these men less legendary because they decided to come together and make a run at something great? It's not often that you get a monstar team but even they didn't win it all! Everybody is counting the domination before it even happens! They still have to prove they can play together and then win together! It's funny how everybody is mad at @easymoneysniper for going there but not mat at the Warriors for recruiting him!..lol. People are funny..lol. #Respect

A photo posted by Tank (@therealtank) on Jul 4, 2016 at 5:56pm PDT

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