The basketball world has had several analysts over the years, breaking down the game for fans. However, there cannot be another Stephen A. Smith in the industry. The 55-year-old has enjoyed phenomenal success as an NBA analyst, becoming one of the most popular figures on television. His controversial takes and his flamboyant personality have influenced his network’s success tremendously. But how is he looking to keep up with the new changes?

After a recent wave of layoffs, Stephen A. Smith and his fellow members of the $50B worth network experienced unprecedented changes. The most celebrated names on the network found themselves without a job. However, lucky for Smith, his network landed the talents of another veteran analyst, Shannon Sharpe. Now, the 55-year-old plans to take his show to greater heights with the help of Kobe Bryant‘s iconic mindset.

Stephen A. Smith displays the Mamba Mentality

Stephen A. Smith has successfully led the panel on ESPN’s “First Take” for years. He propelled the 16-year-old show to become one of the $50B network’s most successful endeavors. However, after a recent wave of layoffs, the show has dealt with some unforeseen changes. After multiple shifts in the panel, Smith and co. were eventually joined by the NFL legend, Shannon Sharpe. But can their partnership elevate the show?

While First Take has made a niche for itself in the audience, it still needs to compete with other shows on various networks to stay relevant. Seems like Stephen A. Smith is taking a page out of the late Kobe Bryant’s book to deal with this competition. In a recent appearance on Shannon Sharpe’s podcast, the 55-year-old discussed how he plans to maintain ESPN’s dominance in the sports broadcasting industry.

“At the end of the day, we brothers and we gonna sit up there and try to do what we can to make our products shine. That’s our responsibility because if we do otherwise….we’re getting in the way of what we’re trying to do. That makes no sense whatsoever,” said Smith, talking about his partnership with Shannon Sharpe.

“First Take, I’ve been blessed and fortunate enough….we’ve been number one for 12 years. We’re going to be number one for thirteen. It’s just that simple…..that’s how my mentality is. And I don’t root for anybody to fail, I just root to be the best.”

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Stephen A. Smith had a gritty attitude towards elevating his show alongside Shannon Sharpe. The two will play a pivotal role on the 16-year-old show for the near future. However, will they be able to survive against the competition they face?

Can Smith and Sharpe survive the competition?

Stephen A. Smith and Shannon Sharpe find themselves in a cut-throat industry. Although First Take is a mogul in the industry, there are several shows that have often garnered the viewers’ attention. This puts Smith and his new counterpart in a tough spot. Can they still dominate the NBA analysis industry on television?

NBA on TNT is one of the most popular shows that fans often are attracted to. Featuring NBA legends like Shaquille O’Neal and Charles Barkley, the show boasts of phenomenal success and viewership. Furthermore, Sharpe’s previous workplace, Undisputed is also among the mix after adding new panelists to support Skip Bayless. Among other shows is Nick Wright’s First Things First as well.

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Given the sturdy competition, Smith and Sharpe may not find it easy to dominate the industry. The industry spans decades with numerous shows engaging in constant battle with each other for relevance. However, Smith’s Mamba Mentality may help him deal with the belligerence.