League: NBA Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Stephen A. Smith criticizes Lakers' all-white top players lineup

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 1, 2026, 9:04 PM

Last updated Jul 1, 2026

Stephen A. Smith criticizes Lakers' all-white top players lineup

Summary

Stephen A. Smith expressed disbelief that three of the Los Angeles Lakers' top players for the 2026 season are all white. LeBron James announced he will not be playing for the Lakers next season after eight years with the team. The Lakers will now rely on 27-year-old Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, who recently signed a four-year contract. Smith questioned the team's potential for success with this player composition and accused the Lakers' management of prioritizing a homogenous roster. Discussions around the Lakers' strategy are intensifying as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•LeBron James will not return to the Lakers for the 2026 season.
•Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves are expected to lead the team.
•Reaves recently signed a four-year, $185 million contract.
•Smith criticized the Lakers for having an all-white top player lineup.
•Debate continues over the Lakers' management decisions.

Latest Updates

9:04 PMYahoo Sports — ‘3 WHITE DUDES?!’ Stephen A. Smith Gobsmacked by LA Lakers’ Top Players All Being White

What they're saying

"
Stephen A. Smith was stunned by the fact that three of the Los Angles Lakers' top players in the 2026 season were all going to be white.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Los Angeles Lakers NBA Basketball