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A fiery back-and-forth erupted between ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins and The Ringer’s Bill Simmons last night on X. Perkins took exception to Simmons mocking his prediction that the Toronto Raptors could finish as a top-six seed in the Eastern Conference this upcoming NBA season.
In a video posted to social media, Perkins blasted Simmons, calling him out for frequently referencing him on his podcast and questioning Simmons’ credibility in basketball discourse.
“Bill Simmons, Cupcake Ass. I always got my name in his mouth,” Perkins said. “What have you done, period, in the game of basketball? Have you ever played?”
Perkins defended his take on the Raptors, citing potential setbacks to other East contenders. “Tyrese Haliburton is most likely going to be out for the entire season. Jason Tatum with his Achilles, Boston blowing the whole damn thing up. When you look at the perimeter, [Toronto has] two All-Star caliber players. Maybe three if you include RJ Barrett.”
Frustrated by Simmons’ criticism, Perkins added, “You didn’t think before you started drinking them Heinekens. And then you got your little peanut gallery up on the podcast. Shut the hell up.”
Simmons didn’t hesitate to respond.
“I’m honored that you sat in a car for 2+ minutes to scold me on your iPhone like this, even though we are a combined age of like 92,” Simmons shared on X. “If you actually think Toronto will be top-6 in the East in anything other than ‘most fun place to visit’ — let’s wager on it ASAP.”
I’m honored that you sat in a car for 2+ minutes to scold me on your iPhone like this, even though we are a combined age of like 92.
If you actually think Toronto will be top-6 in the East in anything other than “most fun place to visit” — let’s wager on it ASAP.
— Bill Simmons (@BillSimmons) June 26, 2025
Perkins, has long been outspoken about what he considers a lack of respect from media figures who critique players and analysts without firsthand experience. Simmons meanwhile is known for his sharp commentary and willingness to call out what he considers to be outlandish takes.
Perkins teased a longer rebuttal during a Sunday appearance on Road Trippin’, indicating that he’s not yet done addressing Simmons. Whether it results in further tension on X or the two men connecting on a podcast remains to be seen. It’s yet another example of how sports commentary has evolved, involving professionals who create content for different employers.
