Stephen A. Smith is looking back at one of the biggest sports controversies of the pandemic—and says he owes Kyrie Irving an apology.

The ESPN personality recently reflected on his years of criticism toward the NBA star over Irving’s decision not to receive the COVID-19 vaccine during the 2021-22 season.

At the time, Irving missed numerous games because New York City’s vaccine mandate prevented him from playing home games for the Brooklyn Nets.

Smith was one of Irving’s most vocal critics, often arguing that the All-Star guard was hurting both his team and his career by refusing to comply with the mandate.

Now, Smith says his perspective has changed.

With all the new talk around Dr. Fauci and how the pandemic was handled, Stephen A. admitted he was wrong for going so hard on Kyrie. He gave Kyrie props for standing his ground and said everyone ultimately has the right to make their own health decisions.

Kyrie always stated his choice came down to his beliefs and his right to make his own medical decisions, even when it meant missing games, losing brand deals, and being dragged through the press.

Stephen A.’s apology instantly sparked online discussion. Many fans gave him props for admitting he messed up, but others argued that all the heat Kyrie took back then actually made sense, given what was going on and the public health guidance at the time.

Whether fans agree or disagree, Smith’s apology has reopened the conversation about one of the NBA’s most controversial stories from the COVID-19 era.