“I’ve been No. 1 for 12 [years]. In our respective industries, I win. I’m fully aware what I’m worth,” the controversial journalist Stephen A. Smith opined while demanding a five-year deal worth $100 million recently. His high demands have also earned him the nickname of “Mr. Greed” among his colleagues at ESPN. In his own words, he might be making employees “uncomfortable”. However, if Smith is to be believed then all of it stems from his love for NBA greats such as Michael Jordan.

Smith was present on Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw on Friday when he spoke at length about his process, defending himself amid claims of being an unhappy man as stated by Max Kellerman. And fans were happy to know his side of the story.

Quoting Nick Saban, Smith opined that “mediocre people don’t like winners,” and it was because of that people made fun of his work ethic at times. He further revealed that he wouldn’t want to be one of those who just punch “that proverbial clock.” Instead, he reminded everyone that being in the ratings business meant to give one’s best. He further added, “I think about my partners just as much as I think about myself are we winning if I’m winning.” 

ESPN’s First Take was formerly hosted by Jay Crawford and Dana Jacobson. However, neither the format nor the hosts attracted much attention. ESPN’s show then underwent a major change as regular guest contributor Smith took on a permanent role. His strong work ethic and distinct viewpoints attracted many viewers, leading to the show lasting 16 seasons. In December of last year, the show averaged 611,000 viewers, marking it as the second-highest month in viewership. And hence, Smith might feel that he has the right to ask for a hefty salary for taking center stage in the show’s success. His demands are backed by an astounding work ethic, which he says makes people uncomfortable.

“I’m one of those people, that I may not say much, but I want you to be uncomfortable with me. I want you to be uncomfortable around me. I want you to be around me, and you know … you want to get away from me as fast as you can. If you mediocre, you are satisfied with being mediocre, and you don’t give a damn. And you don’t care about the results, you don’t care about winning. I want you uncomfortable,” Smith said.

Further, Smith used analogies from the past to justify his stance. “Do you know people like the late great Kobe Bryant … God rest his soul. You knew his mentality. Michael Jordan has been a friend of mine for years. You knew his mentality? I mean these are people that were winners and I believe in being a winner and exhausting yourself to do it.”

Michael Jordan‘s exceptional rise in the NBA after his draft in 1984 stemmed from his unwavering determination and work ethic. Despite lacking a voice and status initially, he relied on his game to make an impact. Over the years, he worked tirelessly to achieve everything on a baller’s bucket list. From becoming a six-time NBA champion to winning the MVP award five times, Jordan truly made a name for himself. As he reflected on his journey, he stated, “Because I had no voice. I had no status. I had to do it with the way that I played.”

Even his Chicago Bulls teammate BJ Armstrong applauded his incredible process, opining “It wasn’t his will to win and all of those things that we love to talk about. His preparation for the game was far superior.” Therefore, Smith also feels that his demands can create an uncomfortable atmosphere, which may intimidate others. However, time and again, his peers emphasize that these high expectations are what truly fuel Jordan’s relentless pursuit of excellence.

“Explode the budget of the show” – Stephen A. Smith’s demands raise tensions

When Smith demanded a $7 million raise in July, a rift reportedly emerged between him and the rest of the staff. According to Star local media, the employees described the situation as very frustrating and blamed Smith along with his co-host Shannon Sharpe for “doing whatever they want.” He faced accusations of prioritizing his contract details over fostering a positive working environment for his colleagues, and now, with Smith’s latest demands, the situation appears to be heading in the same direction.

A reporter highlighted that “$25 million per year adds a lot of tension to the team,” stating that “it will literally explode the budget of the show.” Based on Smith’s history and recent comments, he believes his colleagues may not support him because of his high performance and relentless drive to win.

Hopefully, Smith will be able to sort out the issues soon. And perhaps then no one will challenge him since it is a fact that he has uplifted the show and made it one of the most go-to talk shows that caters to sports lovers.