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 and radio personality, journalist, and NBA analyst. He is known for his appearances on ESPN's SportsCenter, NBA Countdown, and First Take, where he provides commentary alongside Molly Qerim. Smith also contributes as a columnist for ESPN and The Philadelphia Inquirer. His career encompasses various roles in sports media, solidifying his presence as a recognizable and influential figure in sports broadcasting.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements Controversies & Scandals

2004: NHL Abolishes Ties

In 2004, Stephen A. Smith made statements indicating a lack of knowledge about hockey, such as claiming tie games still existed even after the NHL abolished them following the 2004-05 NHL lockout.

July 25, 2014: Controversial Remarks on First Take

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

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.

2014: Philadelphia Eagles Roster Decisions

In 2014, Chip Kelly made multiple roster decisions that drew criticism.

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

On March 9, 2015, during an episode of First Take, Stephen A. Smith commented on Philadelphia Eagles' head coach Chip Kelly's roster moves, suggesting they made some people uncomfortable.

May 8, 2015: McCoy's Comments on Kelly

On May 8, 2015, LeSean McCoy admitted in an interview with ESPN The Magazine that he didn't see eye to eye with Chip Kelly and believed some roster moves were racially motivated.

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 while on SportsCenter.

August 2017: Criticized Zach Randolph for Marijuana Arrest

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

2018: Implied J. R. Smith was high during NBA Finals blunder

In 2018, after J. R. Smith's blunder in Game 1 of the NBA Finals, Stephen A. Smith jokingly delivered his "Stay off the weed!" line at a live First Take taping, implying the blunder was due to being high. The Warriors won the series.

May 2019: Criticized D'Angelo Russell for Marijuana Possession

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

June 2021: Criticized Alex Caruso for Marijuana Possession

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 during an appearance on Real Time With Bill Maher, expressing disappointment in her performance and feeling like a fool.