Stephen A. Smith and LeBron James. Image via: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images | Bill Streicher-Imagn Images via Reuters Connect
Smith, 59, will cover the final two years of James’ career and says he has no energy left for the grudge. The two have clashed for a long time, and the worst of it came during a Lakers game in March 2025. At 59, he sees better uses of his time than a grudge. In 2025, Smith questioned how Bronny James got into the NBA, argued his father’s influence played a large part, and criticized the guard’s development while putting the blame on LeBron. The Lakers took Bronny 55th overall in 2024.
Smith says his fight with LeBron James is over. The ESPN analyst told viewers of his own show he does not hate the 76ers forward and would like to see him win a title in Philadelphia. Smith said on his show both men have had problems with each other, but the anger has run its course. “I’m thoroughly over that,” he said.
Stephen A. It is a sharp turn for a man who spent years picking apart James’ decisions and performances. Going by his own words, yes. He wishes James well and is looking forward to covering him through a career he expects to end within two years. “Life is short. Ain’t got time for all of that. I wish him nothing but the best. And I’m looking forward to covering him as his career comes to an end over the next two years. Hopefully, he’ll win a championship for Philadelphia. James has committed to Philadelphia for the last stretch of his playing career, and Smith believes the veteran forward could still have a title run left in him. He hopes the city gets one. A health scare cost him development time, he never settled into a steady role in Los Angeles, and JJ Redick still has not used him in the rotation.
James took exception and confronted Smith at a Lakers game against the Knicks in March 2025. Because he had faced a father and not a basketball player, and he could not stay angry about that, smith later said it left him sad,.
He said analysts can criticize any player, Bronny included, but Smith went personal, and he joked that Smith was on a “Taylor Swift tour run. Smith’s new tone does not point to a friendship, and neither man has said he wants to rebuild one. Smith claimed the then-Lakers star swore at him over his son. James answered on the Pat McAfee show. Smith hit back, calling James a liar on the subject of his son and saying he would have started swinging at once had the sideline exchange turned physical.