Stephen A. Smith on the LeBron James effect: “He made everyone richer”
Stephen A. Smith reflects on how LeBron James transformed the NBA far beyond the court, driving TV ratings, elevating the league’s biggest stars, and helping countless careers flourish
After years of tension, Stephen A. Smith finally opened up on the Out The Mud podcast. At the center of the conversation was his highly publicized courtside confrontation with LeBron James and the criticism surrounding Bronny James’ NBA journey.
The ESPN analyst shared a story that blended professional pride, journalistic ethics, and an unexpected tribute to the greatness of the four-time NBA champion.
The breaking point came during a nationally televised game, when LeBron confronted Smith courtside in the third quarter.
He came at me right in the middle of the game. I had no way to defend myself. It was the night I signed my new contract, and I was there as a personal guest of Ari Emanuel and Larry David. For something like that to happen was truly disgraceful
Stephen A. Smith
The Bronny issue: “You can’t ask us not to do our jobs”
According to Smith, LeBron’s frustration stemmed from his criticism of Bronny James’ NBA debut. But Smith stood by his reporting.
I avoided watching him in high school because I didn’t want to judge him. I prayed for him when he had his heart issue. But when you put him on the floor in the first quarter against Tyrese Maxey and he isn’t ready, you’re crossing the line. You’re a basketball genius – you have to know you’re putting him in a vulnerable position
Stephen A. Smith
Smith was adamant about the role of the media, especially after many accused LeBron of nepotism when Bronny was selected with the 55th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft.
You’re asking us to ignore what we’re seeing in front of millions of people just because it involves you? I’m not going to do that. We have a job to do
Stephen A. Smith
An attack on his “Home turf”
What bothered Smith most was not only the courtside confrontation, but the fact that LeBron later appeared on ESPN, during The Pat McAfee Show, to criticize him publicly.
That’s my territory – that’s the network I work for. You came onto my turf
Stephen A. Smith
Despite everything, Smith revealed that he tried to settle the matter privately after the game, only to be turned down.
I told him, ‘Let’s go talk in the back.’ He said, ‘Hell no.’ So I let it go. I didn’t want to create a scene courtside
Stephen A. Smith
“LeBron made everyone richer”
Despite the bitterness surrounding the incident, Smith concluded with a sincere acknowledgment of LeBron James’ impact – not only on the NBA, but on his own career.
I don’t hate him. I can disapprove of what you do without hating who you are. LeBron is an elite ambassador who has done miraculous things for the NBA. We’ve all benefited from it, myself included. Without him, who knows where I’d be today?
Stephen A. Smith
Smith then closed the conversation with one final reflection.
He’s 41, I’m 58. It’s my professional responsibility to appreciate his greatness. What he’s given to the game far outweighs any little disagreement between us. I wish him nothing but the best
Stephen A. Smith
Smith closed the most contentious chapter of his media career with a surprising admission of gratitude, especially given the sharp criticism he has directed at the Lakers’ No. 23 over the years.
Acknowledging that part of his own professional success is tied to the longevity of an athlete he hasn’t spoken to in years is a rare display of intellectual honesty.