Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Stephen A. Smith

Public opinion and media debates around Stephen A. Smith—discover key moments of controversy.

Stephen A. Smith is a prominent American sports analyst, television personality, and radio host. He is best known for his role as an NBA analyst on ESPN, appearing on shows like SportsCenter, NBA Countdown, and First Take. Smith has also hosted his own show on ESPN Radio and contributes as a columnist for both ESPN and The Philadelphia Inquirer. He is a well-recognized and often controversial figure in sports media.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements Controversies & Scandals

July 25, 2014: Controversial Remarks on First Take

On July 25, 2014, Stephen A. Smith made controversial remarks on First Take regarding domestic abuse and the Ray Rice situation, leading to widespread criticism.

July 29, 2014: Suspension by ESPN

On July 29, 2014, Stephen A. Smith was suspended by ESPN for a week due to his controversial remarks on First Take.

2014: Kelly's roster moves

In 2014, coach Chip Kelly released wide receiver DeSean Jackson and traded LeSean McCoy, while still keeping wide receiver Riley Cooper on the Eagles' roster, leading to speculation about his motivations.

March 9, 2015: Comments on Chip Kelly's Roster Moves

On March 9, 2015, Stephen A. Smith commented on First Take about Philadelphia Eagles' head coach Chip Kelly's roster moves, suggesting they made "a few brothers feeling uncomfortable."

May 8, 2015: McCoy's Admission on Kelly's Roster Moves

On May 8, 2015, LeSean McCoy admitted in an interview with ESPN The Magazine that he believed some of Chip Kelly's roster moves were racially motivated, supporting Smith's earlier comments.

June 11, 2015: Criticism for Comment on Female Soccer Players

On June 11, 2015, Stephen A. Smith received criticism for a comment he made about female soccer players during the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup, joking about German players not wanting to mess up their hair.

August 2017: Criticized Zach Randolph for marijuana possession

In August 2017, Stephen A. Smith criticized NBA player Zach Randolph for being arrested for possession of marijuana with the intent to sell.

May 2019: Criticized D'Angelo Russell for marijuana possession

In May 2019, Stephen A. Smith criticized NBA player D'Angelo Russell, who was cited for marijuana possession inside his luggage at New York's LaGuardia Airport while flying to Louisville.

June 2021: Criticized Alex Caruso for marijuana possession

In June 2021, Stephen A. Smith criticized NBA player Alex Caruso for being arrested in Texas for marijuana possession.

2024: Voted for Kamala Harris

In 2024, Stephen A. Smith announced that he voted for Kamala Harris in the election during an appearance on Real Time With Bill Maher, expressing disappointment in her performance. He also criticized Donald Trump's views on DEI policies.

May 2025: Discussed potential run for office

In May 2025, Donald Trump suggested Stephen A. Smith should run in the next election. Smith then told CNN's Jake Tapper that he would run as a Democrat, though critical of the party, describing himself as fiscally conservative but socially liberal. He also commented on the 2025 New York City mayoral election, criticizing the Democrat Party.