Stephen A's Get@Me!: Stephen A answers Fans questions! - The Stephen A. Smith Show

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Stephen A. Smith Show – "Stephen A's Get@Me!: Stephen A answers Fans questions!"

Episode Information:

Title: Stephen A's Get@Me!: Stephen A answers Fans questions!
Release Date: April 3, 2025
Host: Stephen A. Smith
Produced by: iHeartPodcasts

Overview: In this engaging episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show, host Stephen A. Smith dives deep into various fan-submitted questions, offering his unfiltered perspectives on pivotal moments in sports history, his ubiquitous presence in media, team strategies, and player performances. Skipping over promotional segments and advertisements, the episode focuses on robust discussions that entertain, inform, and provide insight into the current sports landscape.

1. Impacting Sports Legacies: A Hypothetical Game Change

Timestamp: [00:12:30]

One of the standout questions posed to Stephen A. revolves around the hypothetical alteration of a single game in sports history to affect a player's legacy. The fan asks:

"If you could change the outcome of one game in sports history not just for the result, but for the impact it would have on a player's legacy. What game would you choose and why?"

Stephen A.'s Response: Stephen A. reflects on Game 7 of the NBA Finals featuring LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers against the Golden State Warriors. He emphasizes the critical moments that defined player legacies, particularly highlighting:

Draymond Green's ejection in Game 5: Stephen A. remarks, "Draymond Green should have never been ejected for game five. That was a stimulus package the NBA gave LeBron James" ([00:13:45]).
LeBron James and Kyrie Irving's performances in Games 5 and 6: He notes, "LeBron James and Kyrie Irving went ballistic in games five and six, both dropping 41 points each" ([00:14:10]).
Key plays in Game 7: Stephen A. underscores the significance of LeBron's block on Andre Iguodala and Kyrie's clutch three-pointer, stating, "Kyrie with the sidestep three over Steph Curry won the championship for Cleveland" ([00:15:00]).

He concludes that altering this game's outcome could shift the entire narrative around LeBron James and the Cavaliers' legacy, potentially diminishing discussions around GOAT (Greatest of All Time) debates.

2. Stephen A.'s Ubiquitous Presence and Criticism from Fans

Timestamp: [00:20:00]

Another compelling segment addresses a fan's critique regarding Stephen A.'s extensive involvement across various media and public spheres. The fan's question is:

"Why do I just have to see you everywhere, man? Like involved in politics, involved in the sports stuff, involved in everything. You're not a journalist. You're just an influencer. And yeah, your political career is laughable..."

Stephen A.'s Response: Stephen A. responds assertively, challenging the fan's perception of him as merely an influencer. He states:

"I have been a journalist. I'm a journalist that transitioned to a pundit commentator. Why? I have a resume, my brother, spanning 30 years. New York Daily News, Philadelphia Inquirer, CNN, SI, Fox Sports, ESPN. Now owning my own platform." ([00:21:30])

He defends his credibility and experience, emphasizing that his presence in multiple arenas is a testament to his professional journey rather than a superficial influence. Stephen A. adds a touch of humor and defiance:

"You can hate. You can do what you want to do, but I do this for a living. Now, clearly, you have a problem with that. There's a simple solution. Don't watch. But the reason why you can't stop watching is because, you know, you hate it. But you like what you see." ([00:22:15])

He concludes by thanking the fan indirectly for their continued viewership despite their criticisms.

3. Caller Insights and Discussions

The episode features insightful conversations with various callers, each bringing unique perspectives to the table. Below are the key discussions:

a. J.J. McCarthy and the Minnesota Vikings

Caller: Zach from Wisconsin
Timestamp: [00:25:00]

Question:
"J.J. McCarthy and the Vikings. If J.J. McCarthy can play at an above-average level with the talent around Minnesota, how far do you see them going?"

Stephen A.'s Analysis: Stephen A. expresses skepticism about the Vikings' reliance on J.J. McCarthy, highlighting:

Team Composition: "Their defense is big time. Flores is no joke as a defensive coordinator. O'Connell is no joke as a head coach and a quarterback coach." ([00:26:10])
McCarthy's NFL Readiness: He questions the optimism surrounding McCarthy, noting the quarterback's limited NFL experience due to injuries: "He was injured his rookie year before he ever played the game. And yet they gonna say, you know, Sam Donald, you can leave." ([00:26:50])

Nephew Josh's Input:
Josh, identifying as a Giants fan, adds minimal commentary, simply wishing Zach good luck for the upcoming season.

b. Dallas Mavericks' Championship Prospects

Caller: Ben
Timestamp: [00:30:00]

Question:
"With the recent trades and setbacks for the Mavericks, where do you think we'll be in two years, long-term? How do you view Anthony Davis's role?"

Stephen A.'s Perspective: Stephen A. is optimistic about the Mavericks' potential, stating:

"Within the next two years, I think Dallas Mavericks have a shot to win a championship. If Kyrie, Anthony Davis, Daniel Gafford, Derrick Lively, P.J. Washington, and the rest of the crew with Jason Kidd coaching them are healthy..." ([00:31:20])

He believes that the combination of star players and coaching could lead the team to compete against any top-tier opponents, provided health remains intact.

Josh's Contrasting View:
Josh counters the optimism, expressing doubt about the feasibility of such an outcome:

"No, no. I'm saying over the next two years, meaning next year or the year after, they got a chance." ([00:32:10])

He downplays the likelihood, citing player names he considers less impactful and questioning the sustainability of the team's success.

c. Deshaun Watson and the Cleveland Browns' Future

Caller: Christian from Atlanta
Timestamp: [00:35:00]

Question:
"How do you feel about the old Deshaun Watson situation, and where do you see the Browns going from there? Do they disrupt the team structure or try to rebuild?"

Stephen A.'s Analysis: Stephen A. criticizes the Browns' handling of Deshaun Watson, highlighting the complexities of large contracts amid controversies:

"You gave this brother a guaranteed $230 million deal, every penny guaranteed, when he had 27 lawsuits against him. He steps on the field and looks nothing like he looked when he was a quarterback for the Texans. That's just messing with your method." ([00:36:30])

He emphasizes the detrimental impact such situations have on team chemistry and performance, questioning the Browns' strategic decisions in maintaining major contracts amidst off-field issues.

Josh's Commentary:
Josh agrees with Stephen A., noting:

"Deshaun Watson has been looking bad. So bad that I'm in, making my neck hurt." ([00:37:15])

He adds a humorous remark about needing a massage, lightening the conversation after the heavy critique.

4. Concluding Thoughts

Throughout the episode, Stephen A. Smith maintains his signature blend of passion, candor, and analytical insight. He skillfully navigates through fan inquiries, delivering thoughtful commentary backed by his extensive experience in sports journalism. Whether dissecting pivotal game moments, addressing personal critiques, or evaluating team strategies, Stephen A. ensures that each discussion is both informative and engaging for listeners.

Notable Quotes:

"I have been a journalist. I'm a journalist that transitioned to a pundit commentator. Why? I have a resume, my brother, spanning 30 years." ([00:22:00])
"Within the next two years, I think Dallas Mavericks have a shot to win a championship... if they're all healthy." ([00:31:20])
"That's just messing with your method." ([00:36:45])

Final Thoughts: This episode exemplifies Stephen A. Smith's ability to engage with his audience authentically, providing in-depth analyses while addressing both praise and criticism. His interactions offer listeners a comprehensive understanding of current sports dynamics and his personal viewpoints on pressing issues within the athletic community.

Transcript

Stephen A. Smith (0:00)

AT and T has a new guarantee because most things in life are not guaranteed. Like getting through self checkout by yourself. Not guaranteed in a world where nothing is guaranteed. AT&T is bringing something new to the table. AT&T is introducing a guarantee with connectivity you depend on, deals you want and service you deserve or they make it right. Learn more@att.com guarantee@&t connecting changes everything. Terms and conditions apply. Visit att.com guarantee for details. Hey, it's me, Paige Desorbo, and I'm so excited to share my new shoe collection at dsw filled with my favorite styles and trends for spring. Because if you know me, you know I'm kind of obsessed with shoes. And by kind of obsessed, I mean head over heels. You're going to love these shoes. So snag super cute styles like cute flats, fun heels and cool sneakers from the Paige DeSorvo Collection right now at your DSW store or dsw.com I felt that I was gonna lighten the mood a little bit. And you know, when this man asked me to come on the show, he didn't really ask. He just said, I'll be there. I'll be there, you know. Cause he a boss now. That's what he does. Nephew Josh is in the house. What's going on, man? Let me go to this. Some people gonna call in. They send the videos in. They got some stuff to say. I don't know whether it's to me or you or whatever, it's probably to me because they don't care about you. They care about me. But let's hear what they got to say. All right, who we got here? Stephen A. My question to you today, sir, is if you could change the outcome of one game in sports history not just for the result, but for the impact it would have on a player's legacy. What game would you choose and why? By the way, this the best question they ever asked you. Boom. Game seven. LeBron James against Golden State. And the Cleveland Cavaliers against Golden State. Draymond Green should have never been ejected for game five. That was a stimulus package the NBA gave LeBron James. But give him credit because him and Kyrie Irving went ballistic in games five and six. I think both of them dropped 41 apiece in game six. That was a game Steph Curry got ejected when he took his mouthpiece out and threw it. We actually fouled out, but he threw it at the. Aimed at the official, but accidentally hit a fan patron there. And then game seven, the block by LeBron on Andre Igoodala's layup and of course, Kyrie with the sidestep three over Steph Curry won the championship for Cleveland. If he doesn't win that championship, there's no championship in Cleveland. Okay? That's one less championship he would have on his resume. Right. And there's no conversation whatsoever. No conversation about goats and all of this other stuff. So I would say to you, I'm not that I wish. Cause I'm not wishing that. But I look at that game in terms of impacting legacy. You know, Magic and Bird win the Finals for a decade. Jordan won six, six NBA Finals six to six. But when you talk about legacy, defining that would have been that. I think Mons, that one right there is like, I'm cool with that. With the results of that. Because that was players deciding what happened. The Legion of Boom. Losing a ring because you decide to throw a pass when you're at the two yard line, when you have Marshawn Lynch. Right. I don't like that one. That's a good one. That's a good one. Galen's over there talking to me about Patrick Ewing and the Knicks in 1994. Yeah, it would have changed Patrick Ewan's legacy. That is true. But we still wouldn't be thinking about him that much if the new year, then Knicks fans would. But not the world, not the basketball world. That's why I didn't pick that. Galen. Sit back there and continue to lose weight, bro. Let's go to the next video. Let's go to the next video. Show me what you got. Hey, what's up, Stephen A. So here's my question, man. Why do I just have to see you every everywhere, man? Like involved in politics, involved in the sports stuff, Involved in everything, man. I'm used to people that tried to stay out of the spotlight, like Jim Murray or any of the LA Times writers before it got terrible. So I don't know, man. You're not a journalist. You're just an influencer. And yeah, your political career is laughable. I don't know why you're trying to get involved, to seem more literate than Kamala was. So that doesn't make any sense. They need someone sharp or someone that's going to represent the people. And you seem to be just about yourself. Yeah. I guess my question is, why are you everywhere and making millions of dollars? All right, thank you. I guess my answer to the question would be a question, why the hell do you know I'm everywhere? Clearly you can't get enough of me. Since you decided to take time out of your life, you know, to send me that, I won't get into the fact that you look like you got a lot of time on your hands. I wonder why I won't go that route. Instead, what I will tell you is this. First of all, I'm not an influencer. I have been a journalist. I'm a journalist that transitioned to a pundit commentator. Why? I have a resume, my brother, spanning 30 years. New York Daily News, Philadelphia Inquirer, CNN, SI, Fox Sports, ESPN. Now owning my own platform. Brother, this wasn't given. It was earned. So you can hate. You can do what you want to do, but I do this for a living. Now, clearly, you have a problem with that. There's a simple solution. Don't watch. But the reason why you can't stop watching is because, you know, you hate it. But you like what you see. You like what I'm giving, so I appreciate the support. I'm sorry you can't admit it. Sorry about that. But that's on you. Josh, what are your thoughts? I think he was talking to me. Cause I ain't got no resume. I ain't got none of that. And I got put on, and I don't mind being spoken about it. And, you know, another thing we owe Kevin. Right there. I'm sorry. We owe Kevin Durant an apology. Cause I used to. We all do. I used to get on him. You, too. About having burner accounts. I got seven now, so you can catch me at Britney Spears. Seven, nine seven three seven. Watch your mouths. Cause I could be answering you from anywhere. You got seven burner accounts? Yeah. They be talking to me like they crazy. I don't have no damn burner account. I know. You gotta wake up and fight back. Why? I don't know. I just think it's fun. Let me get to the calls before I get on out of here. Let's go to the first one. Go. Zach in Wisconsin. Go ahead, bro. Go ahead, bro. So my question for you is J.J. mcCarthy and the Vikings. And if J.J. mcCarthy can play, you know, just that above average quarterback play with a talent around Minnesota. How far do you see them going if he's up, if he plays that way? You know what? I think they got a chance, man. I think their defense is big time. Flores is no joke as a defensive coordinator. O'Connell is no joke as a. As a head coach and a quarterback coach. Quarterback guru. What I'm shocked by Zach is this reliance on JJ McCarthy. Like, they act like he's Played in the NFL before he was just injured or something? He was. He won a national championship in Michigan. He got injured his rookie year before he ever played the game. And yet they gonna say, you know what, you know, Sam Donald, you can leave. They gonna say Aaron Rodgers, you don't have to come. So JJ McCarthy is that dude that acting like he's produced already. I don't get it. Do you think it was not a smart move to not get Aaron Rodgers on the team just in case? Maybe, maybe, maybe. What are your thoughts, Josh, real quick because I Giants fan over here. I don't really speak on the Vikings. Good luck next year. All right. Works for me. Appreciate the call, Zach. Thank you. This is Ben. Go ahead, Ben. Go ahead, man. I have only been watching basketball for about a year. Seriously watching basketball and I love it. The first game I ever saw was the Lucas 73 point game. And that made me a Mavericks fan. I'm wondering where do you. After the trade and after every the disaster these past few months have been for the Mavericks, where do you think we'll be in around not five years, but like two years. Like long term, how do you think the Anthony Davis. Well, two years ain't long term. That's number one. Number two, I would say this to you. Within the next two years, I think Dallas Mavericks have a shot to win a championship. I think if Kyrie, Anthony Davis, Daniel Gafford, Derrick Lively, P.J. washington and the rest of the crew with Jason Kidd coaching them are healthy, I think the Dallas Mavericks have a chance to win the championship. Am I wrong about that, Josh? Definitely wrong. Ain't no way. Ain't no way. Why not? Daniel Gafford, Derrick Lively. These ain't names. And Kyrie in two more years. No, no. I'm saying over the next two years, meaning next year or the year after they got a chance. I don't think so. You got them beating the top teams in the West. They can if they're all healthy because they got. That's why the Anthony Anthony Davis is tied. Now, it might have been foolish to let go of Luka Doncic, but understand Anthony Davis is good for 28 and 12 night when healthy. When healthy. And he's a legitimate. He's a legitimate power forward at 6ft 10, 6ft 11 when you look at him and Gaffer and Lively, if you get Stella guard play. If Kyrie and Anthony Davis are both available to you and everybody's healthy, the Mavs can compete with anybody. When I'm focused, I could do anything. How Often am I focused? Yes. Griff just got in my ear talking about Kyrie's got a player option for next year. The brother just got had surgery. They gonna still pay him his money, but he was in line for damn near $250 million. I don't know how much he's going to get now. Let me go to this last caller here. Let's go to Christian from Atlanta. You're live with Stephen A. And nephew Josh Christian. Talk to us. All right, so how do you feel about the old Deshaun Watson situation? And where do you see the Browns going from there? Like, how do they move on? Do they just, you know, blow it all up, trade Nick Chubb and things like that and move on? Or should they just keep what they have and hope that they find the quarterback in the next three? You got to hope you find a quarterback because you ain't blowing it up when you just paid Miles Garrett all that money. You didn't pay him all of that money to take season. And the fact of the matter is, Deshaun Watson, it's inexplicable what's happened to him, bro. I mean, that's just the mental completely contaminating your game when you have a situation where you give this brother a guaranteed $230 million deal, every penny guarantee, when the brother got 27 lawsuits at the time against him and you give him the money anyway and he steps on a football field and looks nothing like he looked when he was a quarterback for the Houston Texans. That's just messing with your method, Josh. I'm going to my nephew here. I can't believe how bad Deshaun Watson has looked. Yeah, he definitely been looking bad. So bad that I'm in a making my neck hurt. I need a little massage. Really? Damn, that was pretty low. That's kind of low to do that. That was kind of low. You should be nicer than that. He got you needing a massage. It's the leather. It's a leather. Take it easy, yo. Take it easy. AT&T has a new guarantee because most things in life are not guaranteed, like getting through self checkout by yourself. 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