Love him or hate him, you cannot deny the genius of ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith. 20 years working with ESPN, Stephen A. has pioneered the sports debate show format and raked in millions of dollars in the process. His show ‘First Take’ is one of the highest-ranking sports debate shows on television. After parting ways with Max Kellerman, Stephen A. decided to focus on a more debate-by-committee approach for the show.

Stephen A.’s move paid off big time as the show excelled at entertaining the audience with its diverse opinions. Stephen A. added another weapon to his arsenal when 3-time Super Bowl champion jumped ships from Skip Bayless’ show Undisputed to join First Take. Stephen A. laid down his genius strategy to Shannon Sharpe ahead of his First Take debut.

Stephen A. Smith spills his secret to success

Stephen A. Smith appeared on Shannon’s podcast ‘Club Shay Shay’ to give the fans a glimpse of what they can expect from the duo on First Take. In an enlightening discussion, the NFL legend asked Stephen A. how he maintains the rhythm of First Take with such a diverse group of people. “If you do not know them and if you do not know the audience.” The veteran analyst added to the question. Because of his knowledge and experience, Stephen A. knows exactly what the audience wants from each of his panelists. “I know what it (audience) wants from Shannon Sharpe.” Said Stephen A. with a smirk on his face.

The 55-year-old knows that the audience understands the Greatness of Shannon Sharpe as a Hall of Famer and an analyst, and they love his loud and outspoken personality. “Okay this is what they want, and this is what they are going to get.” Smith remarked. It is the same scenario with every member of First Take. Smith knows what each of them brings to the table and how the show can be elevated by every analyst’s contribution.

Stephen A. Smith does not want to give out too much information

Despite knowing what the audience wants, Stephen A. also revealed, “You don’t want to give it to them too much, all in one bowl.” According to him, it is important to spread out the entertainment to maintain the rhythm of the show. If the show goes on a high very early, fans will have nothing to look forward to for the rest of the show. So, Stephen A.’s genius lies in analyzing what people want and when to give people what they want.

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Shannon Sharpe will make his debut on First Take on September 4. After their detailed conversation, the 8-time Pro Bowl will be even more confident, knowing that his new teammate knows exactly what he wants from the NFL legend.

By adding experts and retired players like Shannon Sharpe and JJ Redick to his show, Stephen A. has played a masterstroke of a move that will take him farther than all of his competitors. The show’s ratings will skyrocket when Shannon makes his First Take debut.

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