Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James has shifted the ongoing NBA debate with his recent statements. The discussion kicked off when Anthony Edwards, the promising guard for the Minnesota Timberwolves, publicly dismissed the idea of being the face of the NBA. James took this opportunity to emphasize the role of NBA media in shaping the narratives surrounding young athletes.
James suggested that the current media environment may discourage these emerging talents from embracing the idea of becoming the league’s figurehead. Responding to James’ comments, renowned sports analyst Stephen A. Smith voiced his objections. The situation escalated when James confronted Smith directly during a recent game between the Lakers and the New York Knicks.
This encounter captured significant attention and generated considerable buzz among fans and commentators alike. In addition to the recent discussions, archival footage of Smith has also surfaced, showcasing his earlier stances on similar topics.
“We were at the Staples Center. And Kyrie [Irving] rolls up on me, taps me on the back, and he’s like, ‘You still got that same energy face-to-face?’… I said I’m standing here, ain’t I? You never saw me at games? For the better part of the last 25 years, I’ve been at an average of 120 games a year. You didn’t see me sitting courtside?… He’s a man, and you’re going to deal with him on the real. MJ is another cat – Real! You could come to me, and it could be real. If I say something publically wrong, I’m not going to apologize privately,” Smith said.
Ima leave this here for yall pic.twitter.com/iDiKkInuWU
— 4 4 4 (@SlimSleepr) March 12, 2025
The feud between Smith and James has created significant buzz in the NBA community. Players, analysts, and fans are eager to see how this conflict unfolds.
Stephen A. Smith Reflects On The Exchange With LeBron James
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James remained silent on recent developments, while Smith took the opportunity to express his views. Kicking off Friday’s episode of ‘First Take,’ Smith addressed the issue, highlighting that he bears no animosity toward the Lakers icon. He articulated that LeBron is prioritizing his role as a father over his duties as a professional athlete, showcasing the personal side behind the headlines.
“I thought it was weak,” said Stephen A. “I thought it was some bullsh*t — but, in the moment, I knew that I was listening to a father… LeBron had walked out of the timeout, and I turn around, and he’s right here in my face. He said, ‘Yo you gotta stop talking sh*t about my son. You gotta stop f*cking with my son. That’s my son. I was like, ‘What?’ and he was like, ‘f*ck that!’ And I said, ‘Yo, let’s talk later.’ And he said, ‘No f*ck that, f*ck that. You gotta stop f*cking with my son.’ I said, ‘alright though.’ And he walked off,” Smith said.
"I thought it was weak." 😳
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) March 11, 2025
– Stephen A. Smith on LeBron confronting him
(🎥 @GilsArenaShow / @UnderdogFantasy )
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James is currently in the recovery phase following a groin injury incurred during the intense matchup against the Boston Celtics.
Also Read: LeBron James’ Business Empire: Inside The Multi-Million Dollar Portfolio Of The Lakers Superstar
