“If you have 4 kids, she completes you”: Stephen A. Smith defends Giannis’ wife

Stephen A. Smith, host of First Take, has defended Giannis Antetokounmpo's wife, Mariah Riddlesprigger, against years of online criticism over her appearance. Appearing on The Culture Table podcast, Smith bluntly told critics to back off, stating "Fuck Y ALL!" He emphasized that Riddlesprigger, as Giannis' wife, should not be subjected to such scrutiny.

Smith explained that it's disrespectful to talk about a man's wife, especially one who loves her husband and raises their children in a beautiful way. His comments came after Antetokounmpo addressed the same criticism directly on a separate podcast, expressing that the couple has heard every jab but is not interested in staying quiet anymore.

The couple, who have been together for over a decade, married in Greece in September 2024 with several NBA stars in attendance. They have four children together, and Riddlesprigger has described her role as something distinctly hers, using their family platform to help others. Despite the ongoing criticism, both Antetokounmpo and Smith have made it clear they will continue to address and defend the couple's relationship.