Stephen A. Smith explains his ‘NBA Countdown’ exit: ‘I didn’t want to be on the show’

by

Stephen A. Smith is a very busy man.

He is the star of ESPN’s “First Take.”

He hosts two radio shows on SiriusXM.

He has his own production company.

I’ve been a huge fan of seeing Jalen Smith on ESPN’s “NBA Countdown” since 2021. He brings a really insightful perspective as an analyst during the pre-game and halftime shows – it’s great to have his take on the action!

But he isn’t anymore, at least not on a full-time basis.

I was really excited to hear ESPN’s plans for the new season of “NBA Countdown”! They’ve put together a great team with Malika Andrews hosting, and she’ll be joined by analysts like Brian Windhorst, Michael Malone, and Kendrick Perkins. Plus, Shams Charania will be dropping in with his inside scoops, which is awesome!

Lakers

LeBron James and Stephen A. Smith continued their public disagreement on ‘The Pat McAfee Show.’ James jokingly compared Smith to Taylor Swift, while Smith responded that he would have physically confronted James if he had been touched.

Stephen A. Smith clarified on his show Tuesday that he wasn’t demoted, despite reports suggesting otherwise. He explained that he actually requested the change to his role during contract negotiations earlier this year, when he signed a five-year, $100 million deal to stay with the network.

Why? Smith said he simply no longer has the time.

Honestly, I wasn’t thrilled about being on that show initially. I actually worked to get myself off of it! Now, I genuinely enjoy doing ‘NBA Countdown,’ but once we’re done with the pre-game show, I’ve got a lot more I want to be doing than sitting in a studio watching games and popping in during halftime. I need to prepare for ‘First Take’ the next morning, and I’ve got a bunch of other projects I’m really excited about, things I’m working towards.

Stephen A. Smith had previously announced he was leaving “NBA Countdown” several months ago, and this has now been confirmed. Back in March, Andrew Marchand of The Athletic reported that Smith would no longer be a regular panelist on ESPN’s pregame NBA show.

Sports

Shae Cornette, a familiar face from ‘SportsCenter,’ is taking over as the host of ‘First Take,’ the lively sports debate show known for Stephen A. Smith.

ESPN did not immediately respond on Wednesday to a request for a comment.

Smith also said he plans to keep appearing often on various ESPN programs, including “NBA Countdown.”

Stephen A. Smith said he’s willing to appear on ‘NBA Countdown’ in Los Angeles if needed, and his contract actually includes days specifically for that purpose. He won’t be there constantly, but he’s available when they want him.

Read More

2025-11-20 00:32