The immensely successful host of First Take, Stephen A. Smith, known for his polarizing takes, spoke candidly about LeBron James and their relationship in a recent interview.
The megastar of the Los Angeles Lakers raised eyebrows when he confronted Smith courtside during a game against the New York Knicks in March of last year over perceived comments about his son, Bronny, which James took offense to.
Stephen A. Smith Reignites Feud With LeBron James Over Bronny Comment
Almost a year on, Smith discussed the issue once more and made his thoughts on James and the confrontation clear. In an interview with Graham Bensinger, Smith discussed his relationship with the veteran megastar, “We don’t like each other. The world needs to know that.”
He also spoke about his feelings on the incident: “I think he crossed the line with the incident involving his son. I don’t think I did what he said I was doing. I thought that was unfair and a low blow.”
The initial anger James felt towards Smith was when the host said on “First Take” last year, “We all know Bronny James is in the NBA because of his dad.”
Hardly the most outlandish statement ever uttered on the air, especially considering James’ own Lakers owner, Jeanie Buss, was quoted as saying that the drafting of his son was a goodwill gesture in an ESPN article by Baxter Holmes.
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It’s impossible to hide how much of an influence having a Father of his stature would be, regardless of the career the young James forms for himself. Nevertheless, the all-time great confronted Smith publicly, and neither side is friendly almost a year on.
Although Smith is not friends with him and feels the incident could have affected his career, he also wished to make clear during his interview that time heals all wounds and James’ influence on the game and, in some ways, on his career, cannot be understated.
Stephen A Smith with a message to LeBron James:
“We don’t like each other. The world needs to know that.. I hope he’s watching. I think he crossed the line with the incident involving his son. I don’t think I did what he said I was doing. I thought that was unfair and a low… pic.twitter.com/vqO4cXZMB9
— NBA Courtside (@NBA__Courtside) February 26, 2026
“Time heals everything,” he continued. “It’s important everyone knows that I know how great he is. I know how great he’s been for the game of basketball… Anybody who has been that great, people like me have benefited because he gives us something to talk about.”
Smith also offered the following to James: “Just because he and I have a difference doesn’t mean he’s not a good man.”
A candid and interesting perspective from the TV personality, who is rumored to be considering a bid for the US presidency in the next election cycle. It’s likely safe to assume James wouldn’t endorse him if he were to run for office, given their history.
