“Stop Using Clickbait”: Richard Jefferson Comes to ESPN Colleague’s Defence Only to Shut Down Bizarre Remarks

Once again Richard Jefferson is not tolerating any disrespect towards his colleagues. One sportscaster took a moment that occurred between two ESPN analysts and sort of blew it out of proportion. Jefferson curbed that right there with a public call-out. The 2016 NBA champion is standing up for people on this side of the mic as usual.

The incident mostly went under the radar during the ESPN coverage of the NBA games. Until Marcus “Doc” Holliday erupted. The former NFL pro has been in the media scene with some controversial opinions, most recently about NBA players. This time he took on an NBA analyst.

“@malika_andrews said she wanted to ask @Rjeff24 to unbutton another button on his shirt; I wonder what would happen if he said that to her? What yall think?” he posted on X, referring to an interaction between the ESPN colleagues, Richard Jefferson and Malika Andrews.

Richard Jefferson condemned such commentary, quoting Holliday with a strongly-worded tweet. “Cmon bro… everyone at ESPN says it, shoot damn near everyone in sports media says the same thing. Stop using clickbait to up your engagement. That’s what I think.”

As per Jefferson, it was nothing but lighthearted banter between friends and colleagues that’s common in most media scenes among co-hosts. It’s a staple between Jefferson and Andrews too, the latter having some hilarious skills that leave the Olympic bronze medalist speechless. Back in May, Jefferson was left stumped and amused in one line.

When he asked Andrews what’s more likely between their co-host Kendrick Perkins going on a diet and LeBron James retiring, she responded, “It’s right up there with you growing a full head of hair.” Remember, this was before James announced his return for his 21st season making his chances better Jefferson’s hair growing out.

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They had a few tense moments too. For Instance, Andrews put Jefferson on the spot once asking about his former on-court rival, James Harden‘s status before he was traded to the Clippers. After an awkward silence, Jefferson admitted he couldn’t solidly back any comment on Harden.

The hosts of NBA Today know better than to mistranslate each other’s remarks. Richard Jefferson will remain fiercely protective about his colleagues and media personalities as he has always done.

Richard Jefferson defends sports media personalities

Previously, former NFL sideline reporter, Charissa Thompson was under fire for admitting she made up comments from coaches. After a Rachel Bonnetta, a former NFL Network host, defended her, Richard Jefferson hailed Bonnetta’s stance.

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Bonneta said this is a problem women in sports media face and it doesn’t warrant an overreaction. Jefferson praised her in a single sentence, “Well said Rachel.” 

Once more, he’s shown he doesn’t tolerate unnecessary hate directed towards his friends in the business. What do you think about Richard Jefferson’s take?