Former ESPN Star Faces Backlash For President Trump Comment

A former ESPN star is facing backlash online for his comments about President Trump.

Max Kellerman, perhaps best known for his role on "First Take" opposite Stephen A. Smith, made a derogatory comment about President Trump, while criticizing Cavs star James Harden, following Cleveland's collapse in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals.

"Bringing in James Harden to win a championship is like electing Donald Trump to fix your country," the former ESPN host said.

The Knicks, who came from 22 points down in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals, were consistently attacking Harden.

"It was no secret: We were attacking Harden," Knicks coach Mike Brown said. "Just like we have to figure out different ways to guard Harden and [Donovan] Mitchell, they have to find ways to guard Jalen."

Kellerman's comment, though, sparked major debate

Not everyone loved the comment, unsurprisingly.

"Making basketball political is so lame," one wrote.

"This is so disrespectful towards James Harden lol," another fan added.

"This is exactly why sports and politics are both so exhausting lately.. everyone just wants to pick a side and argue. Keep your politics out of my sports feed. Seriously, it's not that hard," another fan added.

"I don't know if it's possible to roll your eyes harder than everyone hearing this rolled their eyes," another wrote.

Of course, some loved it.

"Never did I think I'd see an accurate comparison between James Harden and Donald Trump," one fan added.

"Max Kellerman still has his fastball," another added.

The Cavs, though, do not plan on benching Harden.

"No, he's been one of our best defenders in these playoffs," Atkinson said. "I trust him – smart, great hands. Didn't think about that."

Game 2 is set for Thursday night at 8 p.m. E.T.

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This story was originally published May 20, 2026 at 9:48 PM.