Summary of "Stephen A's Take: Final Comments on LeBron Confrontation"

The Stephen A. Smith Show Episode
Title: Stephen A's Take: Final Comments on LeBron Confrontation
Release Date: March 18, 2025
Host: Stephen A. Smith
Produced by: iHeartPodcasts

Introduction

In the episode titled "Stephen A's Take: Final Comments on LeBron Confrontation," host Stephen A. Smith delves deep into the long-standing tension between himself and NBA superstar LeBron James. Addressing comments from fellow NBA personalities Dwyane Wade and Carmelo Anthony, Smith provides his unfiltered perspective on the situation, clarifying misconceptions and outlining his stance on various related issues.

Background of the Confrontation

Stephen A. Smith initiates the discussion by acknowledging recent events where LeBron James confronted him courtside during a Lakers game. This incident sparked widespread debate, prompting Smith to address the matter head-on.

Stephen A. Smith [01:10]: "Let me transition to a serious topic because I wanna put an end once and for all to this discussion about yours truly and LeBron James in light of what happened last week."

Insights from Dwyane Wade and Carmelo Anthony

Smith references statements made by Dwyane Wade and Carmelo Anthony, both of whom have close relationships with LeBron James. They weighed in on the confrontation, providing their perspectives on the dynamics between Smith and James.

Dwyane Wade [02:26]: "Stephen A. He coming tonight. He coming to the game tonight."

Carmelo Anthony [03:00]: "There is a fine line of, I am a father, but you can't separate the fact that he is your teammate as well."

Stephen A.'s Explanation of the Relationship with LeBron James

Addressing the core of the issue, Smith elaborates on the lack of a personal relationship with LeBron James, despite mutual respect for each other's professional achievements. He emphasizes that while he respects LeBron's status in basketball, their interactions have been limited and strained.

Stephen A. Smith [03:00]: "Me and LeBron, we don't have a relationship. LeBron don't mess with me and I don't mess with him. I respect the hell out of him. He's number two on the list all time."

Smith further explains incidents where LeBron's actions, such as confronting him during games, have solidified the lack of camaraderie between them.

Stephen A. Smith [08:35]: "I have video documentation with me refusing to cover Bronnie, never watching him out of respect for the family."

Discussion on Bronny James

The discussion briefly touches upon Bronny James, LeBron's son, addressing rumors and clarifying his stance on reporting and commentary related to Bronny.

Stephen A. Smith [10:14]: "Bronny James, I'm going to do my job. Same energy. You mess up, I'ma mention it. You succeed, I'm gonna be there celebrating it."

Stephen A.'s Take on LeBron's Place in NBA History

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to Stephen A.'s views on LeBron James' legacy compared to Michael Jordan. Smith asserts his belief that Michael Jordan remains the greatest of all time (GOAT), citing Jordan's unparalleled heart and competitive spirit.

Stephen A. Smith [19:17]: "Another all-star appearance. Another."

Stephen A. Smith [19:23]: "Ain't my goat. I watch the game. I'm a student of the game. I know a goat when I see one. And he is a goat of this generation. But all time, it's Michael Jordan."

Smith critiques LeBron's performance in key moments, referencing the 2011 NBA Finals as a blemish on his otherwise illustrious career.

Stephen A. Smith [19:23]: "But all time, it's Michael Jordan. That's who the hell it is. That's the goat."

Media and Public Perception

Smith addresses how media portrayal and public opinion have influenced perceptions of both him and LeBron James. He emphasizes the role of black media and the complexities of their interactions over the years.

Stephen A. Smith [15:22]: "A whole bunch of people who ain't Stephen A. Smith, who don't have my microphone, who don't have my platform, was talking about him behind his back and talking about LeBron and what he was doing as a father who happens to be the greatest attraction in the game today."

He reiterates his commitment to delivering honest and unbiased commentary, regardless of external pressures or personal disagreements.

Stephen A. Smith [24:43]: "To the basketball world, I'm Stephen A. Smith, dammit, and I'm gonna cover the sport the way I cover the sport. Ain't nobody changing me on that."

Conclusion and Final Remarks

In wrapping up the episode, Stephen A. Smith firmly states his position, asserting that the confrontation with LeBron James was a result of professional duty rather than personal vendetta. He expresses a desire to move past the incident while maintaining his integrity as a sports broadcaster.

Stephen A. Smith [24:44]: "Ain't nobody changing me on that. I'm gonna give it to you how you deserve it, good, bad or indifferent. And that includes LeBron James."

He offers apologies to those affected by the confrontation and underscores his dedication to covering basketball authentically.

Stephen A. Smith [25:09]: "Ain't nobody changing. This was not about Bronny. This was about LeBron. He did all of this with his words and his proclamations and his assertions. He also did it to show that it really does hurt him not to be the goat."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Stephen A. Smith [01:10]: "Let me transition to a serious topic because I wanna put an end once and for all to this discussion about yours truly and LeBron James in light of what happened last week."

• Carmelo Anthony [03:00]: "There is a fine line of, I am a father, but you can't separate the fact that he is your teammate as well."

• Stephen A. Smith [03:00]: "Me and LeBron, we don't have a relationship. LeBron don't mess with me and I don't mess with him. I respect the hell out of him. He's number two on the list all time."

• Stephen A. Smith [19:23]: "Ain't my goat. I watch the game. I'm a student of the game. I know a goat when I see one. And he is a goat of this generation. But all time, it's Michael Jordan."

• Stephen A. Smith [24:44]: "Ain't nobody changing me on that. I'm gonna give it to you how you deserve it, good, bad or indifferent. And that includes LeBron James."

Final Thoughts

Stephen A. Smith's episode on his confrontation with LeBron James provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding their professional interactions. By addressing input from other prominent NBA figures and articulating his own viewpoints on legacy and media portrayal, Smith offers a nuanced narrative that encapsulates his enduring role in sports commentary.