Full Send Podcast - Episode 142: Stephen A. Smith

Release Date: November 19, 2024
Host/Author: Shots Podcast Network
Description: Full Send Podcast brought to you by Happy Dad Hard Seltzer.

Introduction

In Episode 142 of the Full Send Podcast, hosts Kyle Forgeard, Steiny, and Brad welcome renowned sports commentator Stephen A. Smith to discuss a wide range of topics spanning sports, politics, and societal issues. The conversation is both engaging and insightful, offering listeners a deep dive into current events and personal anecdotes from the hosts and their guest.

Nightlife Adventures and Betting Stories

The episode kicks off with the hosts recounting their recent night out, including a brief visit to a strip club named Blue Flame, which turned out to be an unexpected experience.

• Steiny: "Yeah, briefly. Like we went to obviously the event that we were at and then we went to some place called Blue Flame, which was apparently a strip club. Got in there for two minutes left." [01:32]

The discussion transitions into their betting experiences, particularly surrounding a Chandler fight where Steiny shared his disappointment over losing money.

• Steiny: "I lost some money. That was a little sad." [01:57]

Sports Betting and Prize Picks Promotion

Kyle promotes the Prize Picks app, encouraging listeners to engage in sports betting by choosing individual player performances. He shares his enthusiasm for the recent Prize Picks World Championships, despite his team's disappointing outcome.

• Kyle Forgeard: "Prize Picks is so fun. Honestly, I cannot watch sports without playing Prize Picks. It makes watching the game so much more interesting." [00:00]

A special code, NELK, is offered for listeners to receive a bonus when they sign up, enhancing audience engagement with the promotion.

Stephen A. Smith on the Boxing Match: Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to Stephen A. Smith's analysis of the recent boxing exhibition between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson. Stephen provides a detailed critique of Jake Paul's performance against the aging Tyson.

• Stephen A. Smith: "I think compassion kicked in, and he was like, I don't really want to hurt this guy." [17:03]

He argues that Jake Paul may have intentionally held back against Tyson due to respect and the physical disparity in age and experience.

• Stephen A. Smith: "Mike Tyson walked into the ring stumbling... I think ultimately, being in the ring with a guy that's 31 years older than you, approaching 60 years of age, I think compassion kicked in." [17:25]

Stephen emphasizes Tyson's endurance despite his age, suggesting that Paul's approach was more about preserving Tyson rather than an earnest attempt to win the bout aggressively.

Basketball Insights: LeBron James, Jokic, and the Future of the NBA

Transitioning to basketball, Stephen A. Smith shares his perspectives on current NBA stars and the evolving dynamics of the league.

LeBron James: Stephen discusses the longevity and impact of LeBron James, predicting his retirement and pondering who might become the next face of the NBA.

• Stephen A. Smith: "I think LeBron will retire at this season and then next season, and then I think he'll call it a career." [28:23]

Nikola Jokic: Addressing Nikola Jokic's standing in the NBA, Stephen praises his basketball IQ while critiquing his athleticism compared to other all-time greats.

• Stephen A. Smith: "He's a phenomenal basketball player, but primarily due to his IQ because he really, really, really knows how to play." [25:45]

Anthony Edwards: Highlighting Anthony Edwards as a potential future face of the NBA, Stephen lauds his performance, personality, and versatility on the court.

• Stephen A. Smith: "I think Anthony Edwards, his game, his flair, his personality, all of those things make you think... he could be the face of the league." [37:52]

Political Commentary: The State of American Politics

A substantial portion of the conversation delves into American politics, with Stephen A. Smith providing a critical analysis of both Democratic and Republican strategies.

• Stephen A. Smith: "Everything comes back to money. When the dust settles and you just scrape it off, it always comes back to dollars and cents." [40:14]

He argues that economic concerns and border security are paramount issues for voters, overshadowing other topics that politicians may emphasize.

• Stephen A. Smith: "Your vision may be different than mine. And as long as you can articulate that vision and you ain't scared to do it, and you ain't some damn supremacist or something that's hating people and wishing violence upon other people, I'm good with you." [47:04]

Stephen advocates for a focus on tangible issues like the economy and safety, criticizing the politicization of social issues that distract from voters' primary concerns.

Emerging Personalities and Future Prospects in Sports

The discussion shifts to the emergence of new talents and the future landscape of sports personalities.

Heisman Trophy and Football Talent: Stephen discusses promising athletes like Travis Hunter and Shedeur, highlighting their skills and potential impacts on their respective sports.

• Stephen A. Smith: "Travis Hunter is a special talent. No question about it. And by the way, a straight A student, 4.0." [39:19]

Nepotism in Sports: Addressing concerns about nepotism, particularly regarding Bronny James entering the NBA, Stephen differentiates between earned positions and those influenced by family ties.

• Stephen A. Smith: "Bronny James did not do what it took to earn a spot on an NBA roster. That's the bottom line." [34:26]

He draws parallels to other athletes like Austin Rivers, emphasizing that performance and merit are critical, irrespective of familial connections.

Closing Thoughts and Farewell

As the episode winds down, the hosts and Stephen A. Smith exchange light-hearted comments and express their appreciation for the conversation. Kyle hints at upcoming events like the Prize Picks World Championships, wrapping up the episode on an engaging note.

• Stephen A. Smith: "I'll see y'all later." [51:11]

Notable Quotes

• Stephen A. Smith: "Everything comes back to money." [40:14]

• Kyle Forgeard: "Prize Picks is so fun. Honestly, I cannot watch sports without playing Prize Picks." [00:00]

• Stephen A. Smith: "I think compassion kicked in, and he was like, I don't really want to hurt this guy." [17:03]

• Stephen A. Smith: "Anthony Edwards... could be the face of the league." [37:52]

Conclusion

Episode 142 of the Full Send Podcast offers a robust discussion blending sports analysis with political commentary. Stephen A. Smith provides seasoned insights into boxing, basketball, and the intricate landscape of American politics, while the hosts contribute their unique perspectives and experiences. This episode serves as a comprehensive overview for listeners seeking thoughtful discourse on contemporary issues in sports and society.