Stephen A's Take: LeBron slams ESPN's Brian Windhorst and Stephen A comes to his defense.

Summary

Summary of "Stephen A's Take: LeBron Slams ESPN's Brian Windhorst and Stephen A Comes to His Defense"

Release Date: March 28, 2025
Podcast: The Stephen A. Smith Show
Host: Stephen A. Smith and iHeartPodcasts

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Introduction

In this episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show, host Stephen A. Smith delves deep into the controversy surrounding LeBron James' recent criticisms of ESPN's Brian Windhorst. The discussion navigates through LeBron's influence in the NBA, his interactions with the media, and the repercussions of his actions on both Brian Windhorst and the broader basketball community.

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LeBron James' Controversial Actions

Stephen A. Smith opens the conversation by addressing LeBron James' recent statements and actions that have stirred debate within the NBA and its media coverage.

Key Points:

• LeBron's Discontent with Media Coverage: LeBron James has been vocal about his dissatisfaction with how certain media outlets, particularly ESPN's Brian Windhorst, cover him and the NBA.

• Impact on NBA All-Star Weekend: LeBron's decision to abstain from participating in the NBA All-Star Weekend drew significant attention. Smith references LeBron's last-minute withdrawal, citing potential disagreements with the event's new format.

  "Wasn't it LeBron James that showed up and notified the NBA at the last minute that he wasn't going to be participating in NBA All Star Weekend?” ([01:45])

• Influence on Player Behavior: Smith highlights how LeBron's stance influenced other players, leading to a less competitive environment during All-Star games, as evidenced by the unusually high scoring in recent matchups.

  "LeBron James gave them, gave the players a side eye. And then all of a sudden they went out and allowed almost 400 points to be scored in the last All Star Game before this just passed, before this one just passed in 2025.” ([02:45])

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Critique of Dan Gilbert and the Lakers Management

The conversation shifts to Dan Gilbert, owner of the Cleveland Cavaliers, and his outspoken nature regarding NBA decisions and player trades.

Key Points:

• Dan Gilbert's Public Statements: Smith criticizes Gilbert for interfering in league operations, particularly relating to player trades, such as the attempted trade for Chris Paul.

  "Dan Gilbert, who had nothing to do with the deal whatsoever, wrote an open letter to the league going absolutely ballistic as to how the Lakers could get the very, very best player in that trade, which was Chris Paul.” ([04:46])

• League's Response to Gilbert: The NBA, under Commissioner David Stern’s leadership, ultimately blocked Gilbert's efforts, showcasing tensions between team ownership and league management.

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Defense of Brian Windhorst

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to defending Brian Windhorst against LeBron's criticisms, emphasizing Windhorst's professionalism and integrity as a journalist.

Key Points:

• Windhorst's Relationship with LeBron: Smith underscores that LeBron has previously expressed deep respect for Windhorst, noting that LeBron has lauded Windhorst's coverage since his early career.

  "LeBron was the one who sat in front of the microphones and said, probably nobody knows me better than Brian Windhorst who's been covering me since I was in junior high school.” ([05:55])

• Windhorst's Fair Coverage: Smith praises Windhorst for his unbiased and thorough reporting, asserting that Windhorst has not negatively impacted LeBron's image.

  "Nobody is more fair. Nobody digs deeper, maneuvers through the crevices to find the positive about LeBron James, no matter what, what the story is.” ([07:26])

• Criticism of LeBron's Recent Statements: Smith rebukes LeBron for his recent remarks on Pat McAfee's show, labeling them as unfounded and dismissive of Windhorst's journalistic efforts.

  "The BS that he spewed today and I have a response to it. That was not gonna happen.” ([18:30])

Notable Quote:

"Brian Windhorst is an exceptional commentator who does a phenomenal job for ESPN. My show, Get Up NBA Today Sports Centers, goes and covers the game. He is one of the elite people.” ([06:51])

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LeBron's Legacy and Media Relations

Stephen A. engages in a broader discussion about LeBron's legacy, his standing among NBA greats, and his complex relationship with the media.

Key Points:

• LeBron on Mount Rushmore: Smith contemplates LeBron's place among the all-time NBA greats, suggesting that his on-court achievements merit his inclusion on basketball's Mount Rushmore.

  "I got him on the Mount Rushmore. I got him number two all time.” ([14:30])

• Comparison with Past Legends: The host draws parallels between current players like Giannis Antetokounmpo and past legends, emphasizing the evolution of the game and the importance of respecting prior contributions.

  "Would Julius Ervin have been who he was if it were not for Connie Hawkins? Would Michael Jordan had had a model to emulate and elevate beyond if it were not for Julius Ervin?” ([08:55])

• Media's Role in Shaping Perceptions: Smith criticizes how media narratives can influence public perception, especially when high-profile players like LeBron push back against certain journalists.

  "They're trying to classify me as somebody who would talk about him as a dad, as if I exposed something that was happening in the privacy of their home...” ([14:30])

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Closing Remarks and Future Outlook

In his concluding statements, Stephen A. Smith reaffirms his commitment to unbiased reporting and his respect for LeBron's contributions to basketball, despite personal disagreements.

Key Points:

• Professionalism Over Personal Feelings: Smith emphasizes that his critiques stem from professional observations rather than personal animosity.

  "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. I don't get paid to talk to him. I get paid to talk about him.” ([19:00])

• Respect for LeBron's Legacy: While critical, Smith acknowledges LeBron's significant impact on the game and expresses appreciation for his athletic prowess.

  "I wish him well. I'm looking forward to covering him as his career slowly crawls to its end, and I'll be one of the first thanking him for the greatness he's put on display as a basketball player.” ([19:30])

• Commitment to Ongoing Dialogue: Smith indicates that discussions about LeBron and related NBA topics will continue, underscoring the dynamic nature of sports journalism.

  "I will broach LeBron James any damn time I please. As long as he's playing this game, he's a relevant sports news topic.” ([19:40])

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Conclusion

In this episode, Stephen A. Smith provides a thorough analysis of the tensions between LeBron James and Brian Windhorst, spotlighting the intricate balance between athlete influence and journalistic integrity. Through passionate discourse, Smith defends Windhorst's professional standing while critically examining LeBron's approach to media relations and its ripple effects within the NBA.

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Notable Quotes:

• "Nobody is more fair. Nobody digs deeper, maneuvers through the crevices to find the positive about LeBron James, no matter what, what the story is.” – Stephen A. Smith ([07:26])

• "He also went into today's players compared to yesteryear...” – Stephen A. Smith ([07:58])

• "I got him on the Mount Rushmore. I got him number two all time.” – Stephen A. Smith ([14:37])

• "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.” – Stephen A. Smith ([19:18])

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This comprehensive exploration offers listeners a nuanced understanding of the ongoing discourse surrounding one of basketball's most influential figures and the media personalities who cover them.

Transcript

[A]

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[B]

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[C]

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[B]

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[D]

You know this is what happens. This is what happens when it comes to LeBron James.

[E]

And by the way.

[D]

This is the thing that is just so funny. You know, weeks ago when I got annoyed at something he said. He was talking about people on the game every day. Wasn't it LeBron James that shitted on the NBA in the play in tournament? Wasn't it LeBron James that showed up and notified the NBA at the last minute that he wasn't going to be participating in NBA All Star Weekend? I don't know whether it was because he didn't like its new format or not. Wasn't it LeBron James who reportedly sitting in the locker room with players and Dr. J and Larry Bird talked to the players about playing hard and giving the fans what they want to see and how important All Star Weekend was. And, and the NBA thought that the players really, really had bought in until LeBron James gave them, gave the players a side eye. And then all of a sudden they went out and allowed almost 400 points to be scored in the last All Star Game before this just passed, before this one just passed in 2025. Wasn't that LeBron? I told y'all when he took his talents to south beach, ain't nobody gonna say I had a complaint about that. My complaint was about Kevin Durant going to Golden State after being up 3 1, losing the series to them, and then joining them a month later. But we've been past that. We've been over that. And I wish Kevin Durant nothing but the best. Clownish comments about me and all, but LeBron James, I certainly never had a problem with LeBron James going to Miami. Nothing's more special than South Beach. And that brother had me in South beach four consecutive Junes. I was grateful to LeBron James. I wasn't mad. But when he decided to take his talents to south beach and did so without showing the decorum respect of at least giving Dan Gilbert a heads up that that was what he was going to do, because he decided to, you know, run an event essentially with Jim Gray sitting down and he called them, he talked about generating over two and a half million dollars for a worthy cause, failure. Fair enough. But it being televised on ESPN and ultimately making his announcement that he was taking his talents to South Beach. Did y'all remember what happened in the aftermath of that? Member a collective bargaining negotiation that followed where players were stripped of 7% of basketball related income. I mean, Commissioner Stern and those guys were coming forward anyway, but nevertheless, their angst to do so definitely was heightened after that. Remember when Chris Paul got moved and got traded to the Los Angeles Lakers? But Dan Gilbert, who had nothing to do with the deal whatsoever, wrote an open letter to the league going absolutely ballistic as to how the Lakers could get the very, very best player in that trade, which was Chris Paul, and basically come out with not even having to pay, but so much for it. They were actually making money while trading for Chris Paul and acquiring Chris Paul in the process. And David Stern, the de facto owner for, for the New Orleans Pelicans at the time, because obviously they didn't have new ownership, so the league de facto owned it for the moment in time, nix the deal.

[E]

Well, why was Dan Gilbert so insistent.

[D]

On not minding his business and speaking out against this? So, so, so vociferously? Because he was still off at how he was treated by LeBron James. See, LeBron gets his money, but this collateral damage that he leaves in his wake all over the place. And other players don't usually see that until it's too late. But we don't talk about that because he's box office and he's phenomenal and he's on the Mount Rushmore of basketball. And where he goes, ratings follow. And because of that, we gloss over those facts. But those ain't the only facts we gloss over. When LeBron talked about the media weeks ago, what does he do now? He comes on Pat McAfee's show again today and listen to what he had to say. Listen closely, check it out.

[F]

See a lot of shit, too. Like, I seen Brian Warhurst on one of these shows not too long ago.

[E]

Like I said, Wendy, you guys played together in high school.

[D]

He was on your high school.

[F]

This guy was like, you know, says he's like my best friend. These guys are just weird.

[D]

I have worked with Brian Windhorse for years. Never once did he say that LeBron was a best friend. A matter of fact, years earlier, it was LeBron who sat in front of the microphones and said, probably nobody knows me better than Brian Windhorst who's been covering me since I was in junior high school. But that's how he talked about him. Brian Windhorse is an exceptional commentator who does a phenomenal job for espn. My show, Get Up NBA Today Sports Centers, goes and covers the game. He is one of the elite people.

[E]

Covering the NBA in this world. And nobody, I repeat, nobody, defends LeBron James more than that man.

[D]

And look at what LeBron James did. Y'all have watched Wendy Report for years.

[E]

Tell me one time, tell me one.

[D]

Thing that Brian went to us has done to negatively impact LeBron James. 1.

[E]

Take your time.

[D]

I'll wait. Nobody is more fair. Nobody digs deeper, maneuvers through the crevices to find the positive about LeBron James, no matter what, what the story is. But that's how LeBron talked about him. He doesn't stop there, though.

[E]

He also went into today's players compared to yesteryear. I thought that was a subject he didn't want to touch. I thought that we should just have an appreciation for the game and not really, really compare.

[D]

LeBron James was one of the people that told us that until he had the platform to vent and look at.

[F]

What he said every single day. That he's better. He's not better. He wouldn't. You're trying to tell me Giannis wouldn't be able to play an NBA game in the 70s?

[D]

He wouldn't be able to deal with.

[E]

Yeah, neither would you. Neither would you.

[F]

Giannis Antetokounmpo would have 250 points in a game in the 70s. 250 perhaps.

[D]

But wasn't that disrespectful to the pioneers who paved the way for this game, ladies and gentlemen? Would Julius Ervin have been who he was if it were not for Connie Hawkins? Would Michael Jordan had had a model to emulate and elevate beyond if it were not for Julius Irvin? What about Vince Carter when it comes to Michael Jordan?

[E]

What about Kobe Bryant when it comes to Michael Jordan? What about Shaq when it came to Wilt or Kareem or Elijah Julia? What about the birds of the world? When you think about Jerry west, when you think about somebody like that, the Kobe's of the world, the MJ's of the world, there was no Elgin Baylor, Oscar Robinson before them. You see, the point is you use previous greatness to measure what the level of greatness is currently, as times have evolved, and you show an appreciation for it. You don't get upset because people are out there comparing one to the other. You're talking about championships, you're talking about leadership, you're talking about durability, which obviously.

[D]

LeBron is tops at.

[E]

Not only capabilities which he's on the mount. That's why he's on the Mount Rushmore. I could simply sit up there and say, you know what Giannis would have got his Giannis would have been great, but he also would have got knocked on his ass a lot.

[D]

And he would have went to the free throw line. And the free throw line was his Achilles heel. With the exception of that Game 6.

[E]

Closeout against Phoenix in the Finals, free throws have always been his Achilles heel. But he's phenomenal. We're able to look and we're able to say, as we look at the great Allen Iverson and we look at some of the great, great small gods in NBA history, we also have to take time to pause and remind them about this dude named Isaiah Thomas who was phenomenal with a heart and guts and the leader of the physical bad boy Pistons. We look at the game, we talk about Steph Curry, the greatest shooter God has ever created. Oh, by the way he plays a point guard. And oh my Lord, the Greatest point guard. And then a guy like Eddie Johnson for NBA Today or NBA Radio on Sirius XM reminds us, oh, wait a minute. My definition of a point guard is a quintessential floor facilitator. A floor general who facilitates for others, facilitates opportunities for others. That's why Steph Curry can't get that. That's gotta be Magic Johnson. It's a CR. To bring up history, to look at the game and to compare it and to have an opinion about it. When the conversation unquestionably and undeniably involves greatness, if you're not great, you're not a part of that conversation. Nobody views that as a crime. But that man that showed up on.

[D]

Pat McAfee show today, because he must be the goat. It can't be anything else. You lost six NBA Finals. There is a definals against Dallas that you specifically choked in four consecutive fourth.

[E]

Quarters of an NBA final series against Dirk Nowitzki and the Dallas Mavericks with Jason Terry or J.J. barrea, who resembled Mini Me standing next to you, guarding you. And you average 2.2 points in the fourth quarter. As great as you are, had nothing to do with your skill. Had nothing to do with their. Their zone defense. Had nothing to do with your capabilities. Had everything to do with your heart. The rest of us didn't have the skill. You had everything.

[D]

But also a 10 man syndrome at that time. Once you learn to win, nothing can stop you.

[E]

If we only went about LeBron, if we only looked at LeBron James career since he won his first championship, ladies.

[D]

And gentlemen, we could have the goat conversation.

[E]

Because since he started winning, my God.

[D]

It is what it is.

[E]

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, figuratively speaking, to prevent him from having that heart transplant. He had shut him down, took his heart right out of his chest and wouldn't have allowed him to have another heart. That's the difference.

[D]

That's how I feel. Others may think differently. Clearly that man does. And y'all go just sit here and act like that had nothing to do with him getting in my face. None at all. Remember how I told y'all the story about I'd look at Rich Paul and them and I say, damn it, I.

[E]

Got him on the Mount Rushmore. I got him number two all time. And y'all act like it's an insult. And Rich Paul looked at me and.

[D]

Said, it is an insult. Where you get that from? Not to say that Rich Paul doesn't think for himself because I know he does. But that man feels that way. No, he doesn't like me. I don't like him either. My feelings about him are what they are and is based on personal interactions and what I've seen in terms of how I believe he's treated others. It's my opinion it's none of anybody's business. Beyond that, his feelings are about me talking about basketball. And y'all gonna let him get away. You're trying to classify me as somebody who would talk about him as a dad, as if I exposed something that was happening in the privacy of their home in Brentwood somewhere, as opposed to me talking about what's going on in a Lakers uniform at the crypto.com arena or elsewhere. Y'all go let him get away with that. Y'all go right ahead. I don't have to broach this subject anymore, but I will broach LeBron James any damn time I please. As long as he's playing this game, he's a relevant sports news topic. And I'm going to do my job professionally, ethically. 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. I don't get paid to talk to him. I get paid to talk about him. I would tell him he's welcome to talk to me anytime, but we all know that ain't gonna happen. As I told y'all before, early in the show, just to make sure that it wasn't something that I would benefit from in terms of ratings or anything like that, I offered to come on the Shop. When they confronted me. This was a couple years ago. It's never happened. Because it's a little bit different when you got to say some of the stuff right in front of the person, and the person has facts to refute what you're saying. Maybe that's why he didn't want to meet me in the back after the game to have a conversation at the Lakers game. Maybe that's why he didn't come up to me and say, wait for me. I need talk to you. Maybe. Maybe that's why he didn't want to have to deal with a real conversation about all the things that he's done to create this whole brouhaha. I get it. I'm not going away, ladies and gentlemen. I don't have to talk to LeBron James. I don't know if you've noticed, but I'm doing fine. There are beat writers and other reporters that have to talk to him. I don't and to be quite honest with you at this point, don't much want to. I wish him well. I'm looking forward to covering him as his career slowly crawls to its end, and I'll be one of the first thanking him for the greatness he's put on display as a basketball player. I, like everybody else, will miss him when he's gone. As a man, in terms of how I firmly believe he elected to handle this situation with the cameraman behind him and all this other stuff, I think it's shady as hell. That's how I feel. That's where I stand, and there's little to nothing that he can do to change my mind at this point. God bless him and his family. Wish him nothing but the best. Look forward to talking to y'all about other NBA topics as well. And I don't give a damn what y'all said. It was no way in hell I was gonna let that man talk. The BS that he spewed today and I have a response to it. That was not gonna happen.

[A]

AT&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 [e-mail] guarantee ATT Connecting changes everything. Terms and conditions apply. Visit att.com guarantee for details.

[B]

Eczema isn't always obvious, but it's real. And so is the relief from EBGLIS. After an initial dosing phase of 16 weeks, about 4 in 10 people taking EBGLIS achieved itch relief and clear or almost clear skin. And most of those people maintain skin that's still more clear at one year with monthly dosing.

[C]

EBGLIS Lebrikizumab LBKZ a 250mg per 2ml injection, is a prescription medicine used to treat adults and children 12 years of age and older who weigh at least 88 pounds or 40 kilograms with moderate to severe eczema. Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, that is not well controlled with prescription therapies used on the skin or topicals or who cannot use topical therapies. EBGLIS can be used with or without topical corticosteroids. Don't use if you're allergic to ebglis Allergic reactions can occur that can be severe. Eye problems can occur. Tell your doctor if you have new or worsening eye problems. You should not receive a live vaccine when treated with Ebglis. Before starting Ebglis, tell your doctor if you have a parasitic infection.

[B]

Searching for real relief? Ask your doctor about EBGLIS and visit eglis.lilly.com or call 1-800-LILYRX or 1-800-545-5979.