Stephen A. Smith(Photo by Kirby Lee/Imagn Images) LeBron James (Photo by Brad Penner/Imagn Images)
Stephen A. Smith and LeBron James have found themselves in a highly publicized feud centered around Bronny James, but that’s not it.
In parallel to the Bronny feud, Smith went against LeBron and brought up the GOAT debate yet again. It’s very well understandable that the NBA analyst does not like the way things are happening between him and the Lakers superstar.
According to Stephen A., LeBron lacks the “heart of a champion” and Michael Jordan is his GOAT, all day, everyday.
“You see Kobe came into the game with a heart, and LeBron developed one. First several years it wasn’t like that because he was scared to get to the free throw line… If we’re being honest LeBron still doesn’t have the heart, he’s never had one. Still to this day 22 years in he still defers to his teammates in the last seconds…that’s why he will never be on Kobe or Jordan’s level,” Smith said on the latest episode of his podcast show.
However, he did not stop there. After blasting James over free throws and everything, Stephen A. brought up his criticism of Bronny’s rookie season. Smith’s remarks were largely driven by the belief that Bronny’s entry into the league was primarily due to his father’s fame and influence.
This led to a clash when LeBron expressed his displeasure with Smith discussing his family on multiple occasions.
On a recent episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show, Smith addressed the controversy and insisted- “I was never sh-ting on Bronny James, would never do that to the James family. I was talking about one person and one person only.” Smith said. “We may never speak in life again. I’m fine with it.”
Bronny Opened Up After LeBron James Confrontation To Stephen A. Smith
Stephen A. Smith speaking to LeBron James (Photo via ESPN)
Bronny James is having a challenging first season in the NBA, particularly given the scrutiny around his debut into the league as LeBron’s son. Drafted by the Lakers, he has made history alongside his father as the first father-son duo in the NBA.
This notable achievement has brought a spotlight on Bronny, with many questioning the fairness of his position and whether his talent alone warranted his place in the league.
Despite all of this, Bronny knows very well what Stephen A. Smith has said about him so far. However, James Jr. is not bothered by the stark comments.
“My first thought about everything is I always try to just let it go through one ear and out the other. Put my head down and come to work, and be positive every day. But sometimes, it just fuels me a little bit. I see everything that people are saying, and people think, like, I’m a f***ing robot. Like I don’t have any feelings or emotions,” Bronny told The Athletic.
After being assigned to the Lakers’ G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers, Bronny is adjusting to the professional basketball environment. Despite only limited game time, he is committed to improving and honing his craft.