Boston Globe columnist Bob Ryan sharply criticized Mark Titus after the Barstool Sports personality launched a harsh attack on Oklahoma City Thunder’s star, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, stirring up debate around the Shai Gilgeous-Alexander MVP controversy. Titus, during a recent episode of the Mostly Sports podcast, labeled Gilgeous-Alexander as the worst MVP of his lifetime, provoking a firm rebuttal from Ryan on social media.
Mark Titus’ Scathing Assessment of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
On the podcast, Titus expressed his strong dislike for Gilgeous-Alexander’s style of play, emphasizing his frustration repeatedly. He said,
“He’s the worst MVP of my lifetime”
and expanded on his point with unfiltered criticism.
Titus stated,
“I have zero respect for SGA, Zero. None. I f*cking hate watching him. I think he’s the worst MVP of my lifetime. I think it’s a disgusting watch. I think the Thunder are a blight on basketball. I think the way they play is disgusting.”
He further accused the Thunder of unfair tactics and detailed his issues with Gilgeous-Alexander’s gameplay, questioning the legitimacy of his moves.
Continuing his rant, Titus argued,
“SGA has zero bag whatsoever. He pushes off on literally every basket he scores and then the refs for some reason don’t call it. And then the commentators do their best to carry water for him and they’re like, ‘Woo, he’s creating separation right there.’ We all saw it. He put his shoulder down and he pushed off. That’s the only move he has.”
Titus accused commentators like Doris Burke and Richard Jefferson of exaggerating Gilgeous-Alexander’s abilities while repeatedly showing the same tactic in slow motion, which he described as frustrating and insincere.
Bob Ryan’s Sharp Rebuttal to Titus’ Claims
In response to Titus’ incendiary remarks, Bob Ryan did not hold back, questioning Titus’ credibility and expertise in an X post. Ryan bluntly asked,
“Who is this sh*thead?”
showing his disdain for Titus’ views and implying that Titus’ background as a walk-on player at Ohio State did not qualify him to critique Gilgeous-Alexander’s performance or value as an MVP candidate.
Implications of the Debate on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP Perception
The exchange highlights the divisive opinions surrounding Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP candidacy, with critics like Titus dismissing his style and supporters like Ryan defending his impact. This controversy underscores the broader debate about evaluating players’ skills, style of play, and respect within the basketball community. As the season progresses, opinions will likely continue to clash, contributing to ongoing discussions about Shai’s legitimacy as MVP and the Thunder’s role in the league.