He is one of the most polarizing sports media personalities of this generation, especially when it comes to basketball.
Stephen A. Smith of ESPN speaks his mind, even when it comes at the expense of being confronted.
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The documented confrontation between he and LeBron James has been the topic for a while.
Smith has had his thoughts on James’ son, LeBron James Jr. or “Bronny,” as a professional basketball player. The elder James had some choice words for Smith court side, and the author of Straight Shooter chose to leave the situation alone. Bronny, 20, is under pressure to live up to everything his dad has accomplished and he’s aware of it. He has endured some scrutiny; however, a little vindication happened for James on Thursday night against the Milwaukee Bucks. He showed the world he can ball for the Los Angeles Lakers in his father’s absence. Bronny posted 17 points, five assists, and three rebounds on seven-of-10 shooting from the field. James became the youngest Laker since Magic Johnson (1979) to record a stat line of at least 17 points, 5 assists, and 70 percent shooting from the field in a game. His efforts came in a 89-118 loss to the Bucks, yet it may have changed Smith’s stance.
Smith stated on Friday’s First Take that he always believed James had potential.
“I’ve always believed that this kid has the potential, once I watched him, to be in the NBA.”
– Stephen A. Smith on Bronny James
(h/t @awfulannouncing )
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) March 21, 2025
Bronny did his thing on the court for 30 minutes without some key teammates.
The criticism was loud, but we will see if the acknowledgment of James can play in this league will be louder.
Stephen M. Smith is a writer for Ball Exclusives. You can follow him him X via @CoachingMSmith.
