ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins has ignited a media controversy with his recent podcast appearancediscussing Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders. The former NBA champion’s comments have drawn reactions ranging from bewilderment to complete mockery across sports media platforms.
Kendrick Perkins calls Shedeur Sanders most powerful black man since President Obama (Image via Imagn)
Kendrick Perkins calls Shedeur Sanders most powerful black man since President Obama (Image via Imagn)
His comparison has revived discussion about appropriate levels of praise for athletes and the use of hyperbole in modern sports commentary.
Kendrick Perkins calls Shedeur Sanders most powerful black man since President Obama
ESPN basketball analyst Kendrick Perkins made the comparison during an appearance on theLGND TLK podcast. “Shedeur Sanders is the most powerful Black man since 2009. You know what happened in 2009? That’s when President Obama got elected into office. He’s the most powerful Black man since 2009”, Perkins stated.
The statement came after Sanders’ November 23, 2025, debut start, where he led the Browns to a 24-10 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders, completing 11 of 20 passes for 209 yards with one touchdown and one interception.
Perkins explained that “powerful” referred to cultural influence rather than political authority. “When Shedeur Sanders is on the field, this is the only time that I see what Black people come together as one, drop all the swords,” Perkins said, adding, “He’s bringing the whole Black community together. I ain’t ran across one Black person that has said one bad thing about Shedeur”.
The ESPN analyst elaborated on Sanders’ appeal, noting his perceived balance of confidence and humility. “He has the balance of, ‘I’m arrogant but I’m humble too.’ And he’s having fun with this,” Perkins said, concluding “He’s the most powerful Black man in sports. You know, what, f— Black man, he’s the most powerful player in sports. Because even when he’s not playing, he’s still getting talked about”.
The comparison drew immediate backlash. Former ESPN analyst Jason Whitlockresponded by sharing an edited version of Obama’s iconic “HOPE” poster featuring Sanders with a new slogan, “DOPE AND DERANGED.”
Critics noted that Perkins overlooked influential Black figures who have emerged since Obama’s presidency, including billionaire Jay-Z, LeBron James, with his activism and business ventures, philanthropist Robert F. Smith, and political leaders such as Hakeem Jeffries and Wes Moore.
Despite the controversy, Sanders’ family embraced the comparison. Sanders’ mother, Pilar Sanders, shared graphics about Perkins’ comments on her Instagram story with the simple caption “son”.
The Browns have confirmed Sanders will make his second career start against the San Francisco 49ers, despite backup Dillon Gabriel clearing concussion protocol. Sanders became the first Browns rookie quarterback since 1995 to win his debut start.