Lil Wayne Hits Back at Kendrick Perkins for Nicki Minaj Diss While Evaluating Jimmy Butler Trade to the Warriors

Sameen Nawathe | 08/02/2025
Nicki Minaj (L) and Kendrick Perkins (R)

Kendrick Perkins’ media career has been largely controversial. The former Celtic big man is extremely outspoken and isn’t easily deterred from saying what he wants to, and at times, what he says, ends up being awfully controversial. His latest take, about the Warriors’ trade window, also lies in the realm of controversy. Perkins made a snide remark at rapper Nicki Minaj’s expense. Lil Wayne, who is close to Minaj, was naturally offended by it. The rapper took a shot at the analyst on his X account.

When the Warriors were shopping around the trade window, rumors emerged that they wanted a reunion with former Finals MVP Kevin Durant. While that didn’t work out, they did get Jimmy Butler, a superstar in his own right. Perkins trolled the organization, claiming they wanted a superstar similar to Taylor Swift or Beyonce, but instead got one closer to Minaj’s level.

“I’m thinking they are gonna go out there and get a Beyoncé or Taylor Swift. They end up getting a Nicki Minaj…and that’s okay.”

Of course, Lil Wayne, who shares a close friendship with Minaj, wasn’t very happy with Perkins’ words. After her fans trolled the 2008 champion, Weezy took it upon himself to add more salt to his wounds. He tweeted out,

“The Warriors thought they was getting a Taylor Swift or a Beyoncé and ended up getting a #kendrickperkins Stop playin bish”

Apart from Wayne, Nicki Minaj’s fans also let their anger be known. They were so determined and tenacious, even Perkins had to backtrack and assuage the crowd’s displeasement.

Kendrick Perkins issues apology to Nicki Minaj

After his initial claim about Butler and Minaj went viral, Nicki’s fans hounded him on social media. The backlash became so intense that the analyst was forced to issue an apology on NBA Today. While his hosts, Malika Andrews, and Udonis Haslem, looked on in amusement, Perkins defended himself from the backlash he was facing.

He claimed that he himself was a fan of Minaj and her music, and hadn’t meant any disrespect by his earlier comparison.

“Lemme apologize to Nicki Minaj and the Barbz. They’ve been on my a**…I apologize. I’m a fan. Please forgive me. I don’t want no smoke.”

That, however, did not control the situation. Minaj’s fans continued their brutal online attack under Wayne’s original tweet. One account even tagged Perkins in the replies, and said, “Can’t play with Nicki name.” In all fairness, the fan was clearly not wrong and Perkins has come to learn it the hard way.

Post Edited By: Adit Pujari
Kendrick Perkins lil wayne Nicki Minaj

About the author

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Sameen Nawathe

Sameen Nawathe is an NBA Editor at The SportsRush. Drawing from his extensive background in editing his university publications, Sameen brings a distinguished level of professionalism and editorial acumen to his position. With over a decade of practical sporting knowledge, he adeptly curates a spectrum of content, ranging from foundational sports highlights to insightful analysis of potential NBA trades. Sameen's passion for basketball ignited with LeBron James, whom he credits for sparking his love for the game. He fondly reminisces about James' 2018 season, which he often describes as "the best display of pure hoops we've ever seen". When he's not immersed in the world of writing or playing basketball, Sameen can be found enjoying Taylor Swift's music or passionately supporting Manchester United during soccer matches.

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