The Stephen A. Smith Show: Stephen A Responds to LeBron James' Comments on the Pat McAfee Show Release Date: March 26, 2025

In this compelling episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show, host Stephen A. Smith addresses the recent controversy surrounding NBA superstar LeBron James' remarks about him made during an appearance on the Pat McAfee Show. The episode delves deep into the tensions between the two prominent figures, exploring the nuances of media interactions, personal confrontations, and the broader implications for sports journalism.

1. Setting the Stage: The Spark of Controversy

Timestamp: 01:15 – 02:38

Stephen A. Smith opens the episode by acknowledging his growing influence in the sports media landscape, boasting over 23 million downloads and 1.15 million subscribers. He emphasizes his commitment to providing unfiltered opinions and introducing his New York Times bestselling book, Straight Shooter: A Memoir of Second Chances and First Takes. However, the focus swiftly shifts to the central issue: LeBron James' recent comments about Stephen A. on the Pat McAfee Show.

Notable Quote:

Stephen A. Smith [01:15]: "Let's just get right into it. We all know where I need to start today, and it's with some sports talk, media news, and my good friend, Mr. LeBron James."

2. The Confrontation: Unpacking LeBron's Remarks

Timestamp: 02:38 – 09:57

Stephen A. reviews the contentious exchange where LeBron James confronted him during a live game against the New York Knicks. LeBron's unexpected approach left Stephen A. off-guard, leading to a heated exchange captured on national television. Stephen A. criticizes LeBron for taking personal jabs instead of maintaining professional discourse.

Notable Quotes:

LeBron James [04:25]: "That feels like a moment that had been brewing for a long time."
Stephen A. Smith [06:05]: "LeBron James is full of it. And in this particular instance, as it pertains to his son, he is a liar."

3. The Son Factor: Addressing Personal Allegations

Timestamp: 09:57 – 21:19

A significant portion of the debate centers around Bronny James, LeBron's son. Stephen A. refutes LeBron's claims that his critiques were aimed at Bronny, asserting that his comments were solely directed at LeBron. LeBron, on the other hand, defends his stance, emphasizing that his remarks were intended to highlight Bronny's current readiness for the NBA spotlight.

Notable Quotes:

Stephen A. Smith [09:57]: "I have been winning in television for quite some time. I don't need an incident like this to talk about LeBron."
LeBron James [10:17]: "This is not about Bronnie. This is about LeBron."

4. Media Dynamics: The Role of Pat McAfee and ESPN

Timestamp: 21:19 – 28:03

Stephen A. commends Pat McAfee for facilitating the interview with LeBron, asserting that McAfee did his job by securing an interview with one of basketball's most influential players. He expresses frustration over media figures who, according to him, fail to hold LeBron accountable for his statements.

Notable Quotes:

Stephen A. Smith [21:08]: "Pat McAfee did nothing wrong. Pat McAfee did his job."
LeBron James [21:19]: "I have not been talking about Bronny James. I have not, as LeBron James accused me of doing to my face, been shitting on his son."

5. The Personal Vendetta: Character Attacks and Professionalism

Timestamp: 28:03 – 34:42

The conversation intensifies as both parties delve into personal attacks. Stephen A. accuses LeBron of being passive-aggressive and two-faced, while LeBron counters by highlighting Stephen A.'s perceived dishonesty and manipulation in media interactions. The exchange underscores the challenges of maintaining professionalism amidst personal disagreements in the high-stakes world of sports media.

Notable Quotes:

Stephen A. Smith [28:03]: "He also looked at everybody else and he say, this, Stephen, a man, please."
LeBron James [29:30]: "I have worked with Brian Windhorse for years. Never once did he say that LeBron was a best friend."

6. The Broader Impact: Ratings, Influence, and Legacy

Timestamp: 34:42 – 51:30

Stephen A. discusses the broader implications of the feud, emphasizing his role in sports journalism and the necessity to critique influential figures like LeBron James. He touches upon LeBron's impact on NBA ratings and the perception of media figures within the sports community. The segment also explores the idea of legacy, with both Stephen A. and LeBron reflecting on their respective places in basketball history.

Notable Quotes:

Stephen A. Smith [34:08]: "The news is the news, the sport is the sport, and the story was the story."
LeBron James [50:37]: "But before that, that heart transplant that he needed, it is my belief Michael Jordan would have been in the hospital blocking the door every single time."

7. Final Thoughts: Moving Forward Amidst Tensions

Timestamp: 51:30 – 57:35

As the episode nears its conclusion, Stephen A. reaffirms his commitment to unbiased sports journalism. He expresses a desire to continue discussing LeBron's career objectively, regardless of personal feelings. The segment wraps up with Stephen A. outlining his approach to covering LeBron without personal bias, ensuring that his audience receives honest and comprehensive analysis.

Notable Quote:

Stephen A. Smith [57:35]: "I don't have to like him to do that, and he doesn't have to like me in order for me to do it."

Conclusion: A Candid Exchange in Sports Media

This episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show offers an unfiltered look into the fractious relationship between a sports journalist and one of the NBA's most prominent players. Through candid discussions and pointed critiques, Stephen A. navigates the complexities of media relations, personal integrity, and professional responsibility. The episode serves as a testament to the often turbulent dynamics that underpin sports journalism and the personal convictions that drive influential media figures.

Notable Quotes Overview:

• Stephen A. Smith [01:15]: "We all know where I need to start today, and it's with some sports talk, media news, and my good friend, Mr. LeBron James."

• LeBron James [04:25]: "That feels like a moment that had been brewing for a long time."

• Stephen A. Smith [09:57]: "LeBron James is full of it. And in this particular instance, as it pertains to his son, he is a liar."

• LeBron James [21:19]: "I have not been talking about Bronny James. I have not, as LeBron James accused me of doing to my face, been shitting on his son."

• Stephen A. Smith [34:08]: "The news is the news, the sport is the sport, and the story was the story."

• Stephen A. Smith [57:35]: "I don't have to like him to do that, and he doesn't have to like me in order for me to do it."

This episode underscores the intricate dance between sports personalities and media figures, highlighting the importance of maintaining integrity and professionalism in the face of personal animosity.