The Stephen A. Smith Show: Detailed Episode Summary

Episode Title: California, VP Harris is coming! D### naysayers, Kevin Durant is top ten. NY Eric Adams is a Republican.

Release Date: February 14, 2025

1. Kamala Harris and California's Gubernatorial Prospects

[01:34] Stephen A. Smith: Stephen A. delves into the political future of Vice President Kamala Harris, highlighting her strong standing in California polls. An Emerson College poll commissioned by NextStar Media reveals that 57% of registered Democrats in California would theoretically support Harris for governor in 2026, significantly outpacing her nearest competitor, Katie Porter, at 9%.

[02:22] Stephen A. Smith: "Kamala Harris has been relatively quiet since losing the presidential race, but her resume is impressive—Attorney General of California for six years, U.S. Senator from 2017 to 2021, and now Vice President."

Smith advises Harris to consider running for governor instead of immediately eyeing the presidency. He argues that winning the gubernatorial seat would solidify her political foundation, making a presidential run in 2032 more viable.

[07:40] Stephen A. Smith: "I don't think she should run for president in 2028. Let me say it like it is—the governor's seat in California is a given."

2. Mayor Eric Adams and Party Allegations

[25:31] Stephen A. Smith: The discussion shifts to New York City's Mayor Eric Adams, amidst rumors of him potentially switching to the Republican Party. Smith references statements from Republican leaders in the Bronx and a recent press release where Adams reaffirmed his intent to run as a Democrat in the mayoral primary.

[27:56] Kamala Harris: "She was a Trump appointee. That's very important."

Smith critiques Adams' legal challenges, suggesting political motivations behind the Department of Justice’s actions. He questions the integrity of the Southern District of New York and implies a partisan manipulation aimed at Adams.

[32:03] Kamala Harris: "Why be mayor of the city when you can be governor of the whole state?"

Smith speculates on Adams' reelection prospects, mentioning the possibility of Andrew Cuomo seeking the governorship instead, given past controversies.

3. Kevin Durant's Place in NBA's Top 10

[33:11] Kamala Harris: The show transitions to sports, focusing on Kevin Durant's achievement of scoring 30,000 points, making him the eighth player in NBA history to reach this milestone. However, Fox Sports' Nick Wright contests Durant's inclusion in the top 10 all-time greats.

[39:55] Bill Bellamy: On Nick Wright’s podcast, Bellamy argues against Durant's top 10 status, emphasizing legends like Michael Jordan, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Larry Bird.

[40:53] Stephen A. Smith: "Nick Wright makes a very compelling case. But two things can be true—you can make a compelling case and still make a legitimate argument that he's wrong."

[43:19] Stephen A. Smith: "Kobe Bryant is arguably the second greatest guard in history behind Michael Jordan."

[53:12] Stephen A. Smith: "If we're strictly restricting ourselves to the skill set and the accomplishment of Kevin Durant, you cannot eliminate him from a conversation of the top 10 players in NBA history because you can't show me 10 players that did what he has done. That is just a fact. Period."

Smith defends Durant's prowess, citing his efficiency, scoring average (27.3 points per game), and overall impact on the game, while acknowledging the strengths of other NBA legends.

4. Elon Musk's Influence in the White House

[56:11] Kamala Harris: The conversation shifts to a controversial event where Elon Musk held a press conference in the Oval Office alongside President Donald Trump, raising questions about Musk's influence.

[58:36] Stephen A. Smith: Discusses a lawsuit filed by 14 states against the White House's Department of Government Efficiency (Doge Doge), alleging unconstitutional power granted to Musk. The lawsuit targets efforts to reduce the federal workforce and access sensitive data.

[60:29] Stephen A. Smith: "We have no idea how dependent Donald Trump is on Elon Musk. There will probably never be a way of knowing."

Smith critiques the perceived subservience of the president to billionaires like Musk, highlighting concerns over political influence and the erosion of presidential authority.

[62:48] Kamala Harris: "He got more votes than you, popularly and electorally, period."

5. Audience Q&A: Valentine's Day and Relationship Advice

The latter part of the show features Stephen A. Smith addressing audience questions related to relationships and Valentine's Day.

Question 1:

[63:02] Greg: Buying over $300 in Valentine's gifts to impress a girl, only to realize she isn't interested.

[64:25] Stephen A. Smith: Advises Greg to keep the gifts as a reminder of his mistake, emphasizing self-reflection and acceptance when someone isn't interested.

[65:11] Peter: Losing the spark in marriage.

[66:52] Stephen A. Smith: "Mastering your significant other... One of the greatest gifts a woman can give to her man is finishing stuff that he started without him pushing for her to do so."

Smith provides practical advice on rekindling relationships, such as creating a new ambiance, understanding each other's needs, and maintaining peace and mutual respect.

Additional Advice:

• Hydration and Grooming: For someone hungover before a Valentine's dinner, Smith recommends drinking water, having coffee, taking a nap, and freshening up to avoid appearing intoxicated.

• Maintaining Balance: Emphasizes the importance of not being overly present to prevent suffocation, allowing space for each other to miss and appreciate one another.

6. Conclusion

In wrapping up the episode, Stephen A. Smith reiterates his perspective on the discussed topics, emphasizing the need for strategic political moves for Kamala Harris, skepticism towards Eric Adams' political maneuvers, and acknowledging the complexity of ranking NBA legends. He also underscores concerns about Elon Musk's role in the White House and offers heartfelt advice to his listeners on relationship matters.

[72:00] Stephen A. Smith: "That's it for this edition of the Stephen A. Smith Show. I hope you all enjoyed it. I got to get on out of here. Hope y'all enjoy your wonderful weekend."

This episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show offers a blend of sharp political analysis, passionate sports debate, and genuine relationship advice, all delivered with Smith's characteristic wit and fervor. Whether discussing the future of prominent political figures or the enduring legacy of NBA stars, Smith ensures his listeners are both informed and entertained.