The Stephen A. Smith Show – Episode Summary Release Date: October 25, 2024

In this compelling episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show, host Stephen A. Smith delves deep into the recent one-on-one interview with Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown. Exploring themes of marketability, media relations, and athlete activism, Smith provides his unfiltered perspective on Brown's current standing in the NBA and beyond.

Celtics Season Opener: A Dominant Performance

The episode opens with Stephen A. recapping the Celtics' impressive season opener against the New York Knicks. Highlighting the team's offensive prowess, he notes:

“Boston shot the lights out against the Knicks, time at NBA record with 29 three-pointers made in the game, shooting about 64% from beyond the arc” (02:41).

Key Players Spotlight:

• Jason Tatum: Dropped 37 points with an efficient 8-for-11 from three-point range.
• Jaylen Brown: Contributed 23 points, solidifying his position as a potential league MVP contender.

Jaylen Brown's Interview: Addressing Marketability and Omission from Olympic Team

Stephen A. shifts focus to his recent interview with Jaylen Brown, where several critical topics were discussed, including Brown's exclusion from the Olympic team and perceptions of his marketability.

Jaylen Brown's Concerns: Brown expressed frustration over an unnamed source criticizing his marketability, stating:

“I think it's cowardice. ... I walk with God. I'm going to be me and stand with my community in this life and the next. And that's my journalistic integrity” (04:03).

Response to Criticism: Stephen A. Defends Jaylen Brown

Addressing the backlash from figures like Gilbert Arenas, Stephen A. defends Brown's integrity and marketability. He emphasizes Brown's stellar performance and principled stance despite limited endorsement deals.

Notable Points:

• Endorsement Disparity: Despite averaging 23 points per game over three years and being a former Conference Finals MVP, Brown lacks the plethora of endorsements that teammate Jason Tatum enjoys.
• Historical Comparisons: Smith draws parallels between Brown and legendary figures like Bill Russell and Muhammad Ali, highlighting how true greatness often isn't immediately recognized or rewarded by the market.

“Jaylen Brown is a brilliant brother... Why is that? Why are y'all not talking about that?” (11:52)

Gilbert Arenas' Podcast Commentary

The episode takes a turn as Stephen A. addresses comments made by Gilbert Arenas on his podcast, where Arenas criticizes Stephen A.'s journalistic methods and sources.

Arenas' Critique: Arenas questions the reliability of Stephen A.'s sources, suggesting:

“If somebody like Woj tells you who's giving you the information, that means he's not important anymore... You do not acquire information” (06:41).

Stephen A.'s Rebuttal: In response, Stephen A. clarifies his stance on journalistic integrity and the necessity of sourced material. He reiterates his respect for Arenas while firmly standing by his methods:

“I found nothing offensive about what Gilbert Arenas said... Need to take lessons... We want to talk basketball, let's talk basketball. But this is my lane” (06:43).

He further criticizes the reliance on unnamed sources, emphasizing transparency and accountability in journalism:

“Every podcast, every report and all of that. Y'all can all lament it. Get the hell over it... How do we know this? Do you watch politics?... It took place long before Stephen A. Smith came along, and it's gonna be here long after I'm gone” (07:25).

Final Thoughts: Upholding Integrity and Supporting Jaylen Brown

Towards the episode's conclusion, Stephen A. reaffirms his unwavering support for Jaylen Brown, celebrating his athletic achievements and principled stance despite systemic challenges.

Key Affirmations:

• Athletic Excellence: Brown is lauded as a "brilliant brother" and a "champion" whose contributions extend beyond the court.
• Systemic Challenges: Smith acknowledges the additional hurdles faced by outspoken Black athletes in securing endorsements and marketability.

“Jaylen Brown... this principled, authentic, beautiful brother of ours, he's not being celebrated. And we're surprised. You ain't surprised, Gil. Y'all ain't surprised” (09:05).

Closing Remarks: Stephen A. expresses enthusiasm for future discussions with Gilbert Arenas and other critics, emphasizing a willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue while maintaining his journalistic integrity.

“I can't wait to have a discussion with them... We want to talk basketball, let's talk basketball... Ain't nobody hiding Kenya Martin... We don't run from that here on the Stephen A. Smith Show” (10:30).

Conclusion

This episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show offers a thorough examination of Jaylen Brown's current standing in the NBA, addressing both his on-court achievements and off-court challenges. Stephen A.'s passionate defense of Brown's integrity and marketability provides listeners with a nuanced perspective on the intersection of sports, media, and societal expectations.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• "I think it's cowardice... And that's my journalistic integrity." — Jaylen Brown (04:03)
• "Jaylen Brown is a brilliant brother... Why is that? Why are y'all not talking about that?" — Stephen A. Smith (11:52)
• "If somebody like Woj tells you who's giving you the information, that means he's not important anymore... You do not acquire information." — Gilbert Arenas (06:41)
• "We don't run from that here on the Stephen A. Smith Show... Ain't nobody hiding Kenyon Martin." — Stephen A. Smith (10:30)

For those interested in the full conversation and more in-depth analysis, tuning into The Stephen A. Smith Show on iHeartPodcasts is highly recommended.