Stephen A. Smith’s voice has stood out amongst the crowd in the world of sports media. The landscape of discourse in the American sports world has seen a drastic change with the advent of emerging voices who emphasize their personal views. Smith has often been at the epicenter of controversy because of his opinions. However, the mark that he’s left as an analyst stands out.
While former players offer experienced views and perspectives, the journalistic experience that Smith brings to the table has propelled him to the forefront of key conversations. However, not everyone is in agreement with the analyst’s trajectory. But Smith doesn’t shy away from standing his ground, even if it means pulling away from vacation.
Stephen A. Smith responded to the backlash that came his way
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Speaking on his ‘South Beach Sessions’ show, sportswriter Dan Le Batard critiqued Stephen A. Smith’s role in the rise of ‘imitators’ in the sports media world. Le Batard’s argument pointed at Smith and Skip Bayless, indicating that they “birthed” imitators who don’t value journalistic ethics and turn everything into an argument. He said, “I hate what you two [Bayless and Smith] have done to sports television.” Smith is known for his argumentative style of conveying his thoughts. However, he has a journalistic background to back his ‘well-informed’ perspectives.
The analyst retorted by saying, “You can say that all you want to, I would say who the hell are you!” Smith said. “To sit up there and say, me and him. What about you? Where the hell were you? Living under a rock? Teaching at Miami U? You were a part of it too! You ain’t innocent!” He also added, “How are we responsible for that?” Fans propelled discourse surrounding this heated conversation, calling Smith’s career into question. In response to this, the analyst stepped away from his vacation to address the heat. Tagging Le Batard’s Twitter account, he said,
Too many damn things being said out there about my impact on sports media.
So even though I am on vacation I hopped in the studio to tell you who the hell I am and where I came from. New episode of @KnowMercyPod out tomorrow. @LeBatardShow
— Stephen A Smith (@stephenasmith) March 26, 2023
Stephen A. Smith may be on a rampage to emphasize who he is and what he stands for in the sports media world. However, a majority of fans agreed with Le Batard. Here’s a look at what they had to say.
Fans propelled discourse concerning Smith and the dwindling state of affairs in sports media
Dan Le Batard is not the only one who believes that the sports media world has taken a turn for the worse. One fan elaborated on the issue by saying
The issue isn’t your credibility or credentials… the issue is what you’ve done with sports discourse and discussion… you and Skip have made it a hot take bonanza that you put your personal views upon to get clicks and ratings… it was nice at first but now it is a hard watch…
— James Hellams (@Jamieh711) March 27, 2023
Another user accused the analyst by stating
He wasn’t wrong lol. It gets you paid and can give you views. But it’s less about actual sports every single day.
— Music Man (@mus1cman90) March 27, 2023
This user had strong opinions, calling commentators “mean girls”
Take accountability man ! NBA media is not even about breaking down the game but just a bunch of “mean girls” with a platform
— Marvin (@MarvinYNWA) March 27, 2023
Other fans pointed out-
Dude. You’re on a national platform. Is this really a shock to you? You’re entire schtick is “first/hot takes”. Let’s not pretend.
— Matt Brown (@mattedesigned) March 27, 2023
You and Skip sensationalized everything and talked nonsense and now everyone is seeing what you two are getting paid and wanting to do the same.
— JAM (@rrrrjewook) March 27, 2023
However, some fans stood by Smith
I came home early from work. My wife was watching General Hospital. She looked at me and said,”I love this guy his name is Brick”. I looked at her and said that’s Stephen A! She said, “who’s Stephen A”. I said he’s the best sports guy on tv. You’re loved by lots of people!
— BaBatum (@BarrBatum) March 27, 2023
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Love your shows related to sports. God bless you my brother.
— Michael Arbuckle Jr (@arbuck16_jr) March 27, 2023
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While this may be a topic of contention, there’s one fact that cannot be negated. Whether it has made a positive or negative impact, Smith’s entry into the sports media world has left its mark and changed the course of action. What are your thoughts on the issue? Let us know in the comments section!
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