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 television personality, radio host, and journalist. He is widely known for his role as an NBA analyst on ESPN, appearing on shows like SportsCenter, NBA Countdown, and First Take alongside Molly Qerim. Smith also has experience hosting his own show on ESPN Radio and contributes as a columnist for ESPN and The Philadelphia Inquirer. His outspoken and opinionated style has made him a recognizable figure in the sports media landscape.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Controversies & Scandals

2013: Move to Sirius XM Radio

In 2013, Stephen A. Smith left ESPN for Sirius XM Radio, joining Chris Russo's Mad Dog Sports Channel, following controversial comments regarding the Ray Rice situation.

July 25, 2014: Controversial Remarks on First Take

On July 25, 2014, Stephen A. Smith made controversial remarks on First Take about women provoking domestic abuse, regarding the Ray Rice situation.

July 29, 2014: Suspension by ESPN

On July 29, 2014, Stephen A. Smith was suspended by ESPN for a week following his controversial remarks.

2014: Eagles Roster Changes

Stephen A. Smith suggests that Chip Kelly's roster moves regarding the 2014 release of wide receiver DeSean Jackson, the McCoy trade, and letting wide receiver Jeremy Maclin depart for free agency to sign with the Kansas City Chiefs, while still keeping wide receiver Riley Cooper on the Eagles' roster might be racially motivated.

March 9, 2015: Chip Kelly Controversy

On March 9, 2015, Stephen A. Smith commented on First Take that Chip Kelly's roster moves with the Philadelphia Eagles made "a few brothers feeling uncomfortable", suggesting racial motivations.

May 8, 2015: McCoy Comments on Kelly

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

June 11, 2015: Criticism for Sexist Comment

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

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

May 2019: Criticized D'Angelo Russell

In May 2019, Stephen A. Smith criticized NBA player D'Angelo Russell after he was cited for marijuana possession at New York's LaGuardia Airport.

June 2021: Criticized Alex Caruso

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

2024: Voted for Kamala Harris

In 2024, Stephen A. Smith announced he voted for Kamala Harris in the election but expressed disappointment in her performance, feeling like a fool for doing so.