The Stephen A. Smith Show – Episode Summary: Interview Only with Jay Ellis

Release Date: April 2, 2025
Guest: Jay Ellis, acclaimed actor known for his roles in Running Point, Top Gun, Insecure, and the upcoming film Freaky Tales.

1. Introduction and NBA Playoffs Preview (00:00 – 04:53)

The episode kicks off with Stephen A. Smith delving into the intense competition within the NBA’s Western Conference playoff seedings. He outlines the current standings, highlighting the Denver Nuggets as the third seed, the Los Angeles Lakers fourth, and the Golden State Warriors sixth. Stephen poses a critical question to his audience:

“Would you prefer LeBron and Steph face each other in the first round, guaranteeing one’s elimination, or see them advance against different opponents?” (01:09)

2. Jay Ellis Joins the Conversation (04:53 – 07:13)

Jay Ellis enters the discussion, initially addressing Stephen’s hypothetical playoff scenarios. Standing at six feet four inches, Jay shares his background, including his internship with the Portland Trailblazers during the 2003 season under Coach Mo Cheeks. He emphasizes the excitement of witnessing powerhouse teams like the Warriors and Lakers clash in the playoffs.

“I think the series will go longer than what some people might expect it to go. But that's the basketball that we want to see.” (06:11)

3. Defining Greatness in Teams (07:13 – 09:44)

The conversation shifts to what defines a "great" team in the NBA. Jay acknowledges the prowess of teams like Boston and Oklahoma City, stressing the importance of experience and championship pedigree. He remains optimistic about the potential for these teams to sustain their excellence throughout the playoffs.

“You can't count the experience out. You can't count the pedigree out.” (07:13)

4. Stephen’s Vision for the NBA Finals (09:44 – 12:00)

Stephen expresses his desire for a competitive NBA Finals, preferably featuring a closer matchup that could culminate in a thrilling seven-game series. He contrasts this with his skepticism towards a potential Lakers-Celtics showdown, fearing it might lead to a one-sided affair.

“I just don't like that for the Lakers. I want a competitive NBA Finals.” (08:03)

Jay concurs, showing support for Stephen’s preferred matchup between the Lakers and a rising Cleveland team led by Anthony Edwards and others. He highlights the fun and competitiveness such a series would bring to fans.

“A Cleveland Lakers matchup is a lot more fun to watch. It's a lot more even.” (10:21)

5. Spotlight on Jay Ellis’s Career and Upcoming Projects (12:00 – 18:21)

Transitioning from sports, Stephen shifts focus to Jay Ellis’s acting career. Jay discusses his role in the upcoming film Freaky Tales, describing it as a fusion of diverse characters set in 1987 Oakland, California. He speaks passionately about portraying Sleepy Floyd, honoring the basketball legend while showcasing his martial arts and action skills.

“I learned five or six different styles of martial arts. I did three a days.” (12:56)

Jay reveals his dedication to authenticity by training without a stunt double, embracing the physical challenges of the role. He shares insights into his preparation process, including advice he received from action star Tom Cruise.

“He sent me this crazy long text with all these different things to do and think about and watch, watch film.” (13:47)

6. The State of the Entertainment Industry (18:21 – 22:10)

Stephen and Jay discuss the current landscape of Hollywood post-pandemic and amid industry strikes. Jay remains optimistic, noting a resurgence in creative opportunities as productions ramp up and writers’ rooms reopen. He encourages fellow creatives to seize these moments to innovate and produce original content.

“It's forcing people... to go be creative and, and think about how you want to give back to this creative community.” (18:21)

Jay also touches on the challenges faced by behind-the-scenes professionals, advocating for resilience and adaptability within the industry.

7. Final Predictions and Closing Remarks (22:10 – 25:05)

In a lighthearted finale, Stephen asks Jay to predict the outcome of the NBA Finals. Jay confidently backs the Boston Celtics, despite Stephen’s playful skepticism about potentially facing his hometown favorites, the Oklahoma City Thunder or the Lakers.

“I think Boston gets there. I think we know that.” (22:39)

They exchange good-natured banter, culminating in Stephen promoting Jay’s latest projects, Freaky Tales and Running Point, available on Netflix. The episode wraps up with final well-wishes and acknowledgments.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Stephen A. Smith (01:09):
  “Would you prefer LeBron and Steph face each other in the first round, guaranteeing one’s elimination, or see them advance against different opponents?”

• Jay Ellis (06:11):
  “I think the series will go longer than what some people might expect it to go. But that's the basketball that we want to see.”

• Jay Ellis (07:13):
  “You can't count the experience out. You can't count the pedigree out.”

• Stephen A. Smith (08:03):
  “I just don't like that for the Lakers. I want a competitive NBA Finals.”

• Jay Ellis (10:21):
  “A Cleveland Lakers matchup is a lot more fun to watch. It's a lot more even.”

• Jay Ellis (12:56):
  “I learned five or six different styles of martial arts. I did three a days.”

• Jay Ellis (13:47):
  “He sent me this crazy long text with all these different things to do and think about and watch, watch film.”

• Jay Ellis (18:21):
  “It's forcing people... to go be creative and, and think about how you want to give back to this creative community.”

• Jay Ellis (22:39):
  “I think Boston gets there. I think we know that.”

Conclusion

This episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show seamlessly blends sports analysis with an insightful interview of Jay Ellis, offering listeners a comprehensive look into both the high-stakes world of NBA playoffs and the dynamic journey of a versatile actor navigating Hollywood's evolving landscape. Jay’s candid discussions about his craft, industry challenges, and future projects provide valuable perspectives, enriching the conversation beyond the realm of sports.