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Kendrick Perkins responds to Vincent Goodwill's participation trophy comment

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 18, 2026, 2:00 AM

Last updated Jun 18, 2026

Kendrick Perkins responds to Vincent Goodwill's participation trophy comment

Summary

Kendrick Perkins criticized ESPN colleague Vincent Goodwill for calling the Larry O’Brien Trophy a 'participation trophy' in light of recent NBA competition. Goodwill expressed this opinion during a discussion on 'Get Up', stating the last eight champions had not validated their greatness. Perkins condemned Goodwill's remarks as disrespectful to the champions and argued they undermine the significance of winning. Goodwill later clarified that his comment was meant to be hyperbolic and lighthearted, but Perkins maintains it was poorly received and unprofessional. The exchange has sparked discussion among NBA analysts about media responsibility in sports commentary.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Vincent Goodwill called the Larry O’Brien Trophy a 'participation trophy'.
•Goodwill argues dynasties are better for the sport than parity.
•Kendrick Perkins strongly disagreed, defending the significance of championships.
•Perkins stated Goodwill's comments disrespect the teams that have won titles.
•Goodwill later claimed the remark was intended as humor.

Latest Updates

2:00 AMYahoo Sports — Kendrick Perkins blasts Vincent Goodwill over ‘participation trophy’ comment

What they're saying

"
ESPN NBA reporter Vincent Goodwill has taken a lot of heat over his comments this week on Get Up in calling the Larry O’Brien Trophy a “participation trophy” given the recent parity the Association is seeing. And now that heat is even coming from his ESPN colleagues. Goodwill unleashed one of the most unusual takes we’ve ever…
— Yahoo Sports

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