The Stephen A. Smith Show
Episode: Stephen A's Take: Both Joel Embiid and Philly Reporter Were Wrong
Release Date: November 6, 2024

Overview

In this episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show, host Stephen A. Smith delves into a heated controversy involving NBA star Joel Embiid and Philadelphia Inquirer columnist Marcus Hayes. The discussion centers around Hayes' critical column on Embiid's professionalism and conditioning, Embiid's subsequent defense and physical confrontation with Hayes, and Stephen A.'s nuanced take on both parties' actions. This in-depth analysis offers listeners an unfiltered perspective on the intersection of sports, media, and personal boundaries.

Background of the Controversy

Marcus Hayes' Column: Marcus Hayes, a seasoned columnist for the Philadelphia Inquirer, authored a controversial piece critiquing Joel Embiid's dedication to the Philadelphia 76ers. In his column, Hayes questioned Embiid's professionalism and commitment to maintaining peak physical condition, despite personal challenges, including the loss of his brother and the birth of his son.

"Joel Embiid consistently points to the birth of his son Arthur as the major inflection point in his basketball career... In his 11th season, he consistently has been in poor condition."
— Marcus Hayes [01:02]

Joel Embiid's Reaction: Following a Sixers loss to the Grizzlies on Saturday night, Embiid expressed his frustration with Hayes' remarks during a press conference.

"I've done way too much for this city... He's not here, Marcus, whatever his name is. I've done way too much for this to be treated like this."
— Joel Embiid [02:17]

The Locker Room Altercation

The situation escalated when Embiid and Hayes encountered each other in the Sixers' locker room post-game. Eyewitnesses reported Embiid raising his voice against Hayes, leading to a physical confrontation where Embiid reportedly pushed Hayes.

"The next time you bring up my dead brother and my son again, you are going to see what I'm going to do to you. And I'm going to have to live with the consequences."
— Joel Embiid [02:38]

Stephen A.'s Perspective: Stephen A. emphasizes the inappropriateness of Embiid's physical response, regardless of Hayes' criticisms.

"You don't put your hands on anybody. You don't engage in physical violence... regardless of what our society tries to depict and encourage and condone, you don't do it."
— Stephen A. Smith [02:38]

Critical Analysis of Both Sides

Defending Marcus Hayes: Smith acknowledges Hayes' right to critique Embiid's performance, highlighting his legitimacy as a veteran columnist.

"Marcus Hayes has every right to write that and every right to say that. Go back in the Philadelphia Inquirer and see some of the columns I've written over the years."
— Stephen A. Smith [05:00]

However, he condemns Hayes for personalizing the critique by invoking Embiid's deceased brother and his son, which Smith deems as crossing professional boundaries.

"You didn't have to use his deceased brother and his son to do it. There's a certain level you don't do."
— Stephen A. Smith [07:15]

Criticizing Joel Embiid: While recognizing Hayes' rights, Smith also criticizes Embiid for his inconsistent health and dedication to the team.

"Embiid misses half his games. He's never healthy for a full season... has been perpetually injured throughout his career."
— Stephen A. Smith [08:00]

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Stephen A. concludes that while Marcus Hayes was within his rights to critique Embiid's athletic performance and commitment, the manner in which he did so—by mentioning deeply personal aspects like Embiid's family—was inappropriate and unprofessional. Conversely, Embiid's physical reaction to the criticism was unacceptable, regardless of the validity of Hayes' points.

"Marcus was wrong about bringing up his family, and Embiid was wrong about using his hands. Both parties crossed lines."
— Stephen A. Smith [09:20]

Smith underscores the importance of maintaining professionalism both in journalism and personal conduct, urging respect and boundaries despite disagreements.

Key Takeaways

• Freedom of the Press vs. Personal Boundaries: Journalists have the right to critique public figures, but personal matters should remain untouched to maintain professionalism.

• Athlete Responsibilities: High-profile athletes like Embiid are under constant scrutiny regarding their commitment and performance, necessitating transparency and dedication.

• Conflict Resolution: Physical confrontations are never justified as a response to verbal criticism, highlighting the need for respectful dialogue.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Marcus Hayes' Critique:
  "Joel Embiid consistently points to the birth of his son Arthur as the major inflection point in his basketball career... In his 11th season, he consistently has been in poor condition."
  [01:02]

• Joel Embiid's Defense:
  "I've done way too much for this city... He's not here, Marcus, whatever his name is."
  [02:17]

• Stephen A. on Violence:
  "You don't put your hands on anybody. You don't engage in physical violence... you don't do it."
  [02:38]

• Stephen A. Supporting Hayes' Right to Critique:
  "Marcus Hayes has every right to write that and every right to say that."
  [04:30]

• Condemnation of Personal Attacks:
  "You didn't have to use his deceased brother and his son to do it. There's a certain level you don't do."
  [07:15]

• Critique of Embiid's Commitment:
  "Embiid misses half his games. He's never healthy for a full season... has been perpetually injured throughout his career."
  [08:00]

• Final Verdict:
  "Marcus was wrong about bringing up his family, and Embiid was wrong about using his hands. Both parties crossed lines."
  [09:20]

This episode offers a comprehensive examination of the delicate balance between media criticism and personal respect, illustrating the complexities that arise when sports, personal lives, and public scrutiny intersect.