Stephen A. Smith is once again addressing his confrontation with Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James, providing clarity on why the two do not get along. During a recent episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show on March 18, Smith explained that the tension arose after LeBron misunderstood his commentary regarding Bronny James, LeBron’s son and Lakers rookie.
Smith emphasized that his criticism was never directed at Bronny but rather at a specific issue, stating, “I was never sh*tting on Bronny James. I wouldn’t do that to the James family. I was talking about one person, and one person only.” He also reiterated that he stands by his words, asserting that if he was wrong, he would admit it, but if he was right, he would maintain his stance.
LeBron’s Dislike for Smith: The GOAT Debate
While explaining their strained relationship, Smith suggested that the root of his conflict with LeBron James lies in the NBA GOAT (Greatest of All Time) debate. Smith, a well-known admirer of Michael Jordan, revealed that the biggest issue between him and LeBron stems from their differing views on who holds the title of GOAT.
“My GOAT is Michael Jordan. … [James] Ain’t my GOAT,” Smith explained. He further added, “I watch the game. I’m a student of the game. I know a GOAT when I see one.” This admission reflects the long-standing debate in the basketball world between LeBron James and Michael Jordan fans, with Smith firmly in the Jordan camp.
Stephen A. Smith’s Stance on the ‘Weak’ Confrontation
Smith previously described LeBron’s approach during their March 8 interaction, which took place during a Lakers vs. New York Knicks game, as “weak” and “bullsh*t.” His comments drew criticism, particularly from NBA figures like Draymond Green, who took issue with Smith’s use of the term “weak.” Green, speaking on The Draymond Green Show, suggested that calling a man weak over a confrontation that was essentially about defending his family wasn’t the best approach.
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“You’re paid to analyze, you’re paid to debate on the show,” Green pointed out. “Most would say that’s weak. And then he will say, ‘I’m paid to do that.’ No, you’re paid to analyze, you’re paid to debate on the show.”
The Future of Their Relationship
Despite the tension, Smith appears to be at peace with the idea that he and LeBron James may never reconcile. “We may never speak in life again. I’m fine with it. I get paid to talk about folks, not to them,” Smith said. He acknowledged that his job is to analyze the game, not to build personal relationships with the players. This sentiment further solidifies Smith’s commitment to his role as a commentator, even if it means continuing to clash with some of the biggest stars in the NBA.
As the feud between Smith and James continues to make headlines, fans and media alike will be watching to see how the dynamic unfolds moving forward, especially in the ever-persistent debate over who truly deserves the GOAT title.
