Tyrese Haliburton steps into dispute over Kenny Beecham’s new SiriusXM NBA Radio slot
haliburton-weighs-in-kenny-beecham-siriusxm-debate
The clash between traditional sports media figures and digital creators widened on April 27, 2026, when Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton publicly addressed the dust-up surrounding content creator Kenny Beecham and SiriusXM NBA Radio hosts Frank Isola and Brian Scalabrine.
Beecham, known for his large online following, is scheduled to lead a weekly program on the satellite network through the NBA Draft. The new show reduces the airtime normally held by longtime analysts Isola and Scalabrine.
During a recent broadcast, Isola questioned Beecham’s reach, asking Scalabrine who carried greater name recognition. Scalabrine responded, “Beecham,” and suggested his colleague avoid further comparisons. Isola persisted, later dismissing social-media metrics by claiming follower counts can be purchased.
Haliburton entered the conversation on X (formerly Twitter), posting a screenshot of the exchange and writing, “Who’s got a bigger name? Me or him?” His comment echoed Isola’s on-air question and intensified the online debate.
Most reactions on social platforms have favored Beecham, citing his digital presence and rapport with younger basketball fans. Haliburton’s message added momentum to that sentiment, with the All-Star guard noting that the issue extends beyond programming changes to “who actually has the audience.”
The scheduling adjustment is set to remain in place through draft night, keeping the discussion—and the broader old-versus-new media narrative—very much alive.
Source: Hoops Wire
