In a recent episode of ESPN’s “First Take,” analyst Stephen A. Smith sparked controversy by claiming that NBA star LeBron James did not attend the 2020 memorial service for the late Kobe Bryant. Smith stated, “I never really brought up really and never really discussed why you [LeBron] were not at Kobe Bryant’s memorial service.”
ESPN Analyst Stephen A. Smith Retracts Statement Amid Backlash
This assertion quickly drew criticism, as multiple reputable sources, including The Los Angeles Times and The Washington Post, had reported James’s attendance at the service. Notably, James had requested not to be filmed during the event, leading to his absence from televised coverage and photographs.
Upon realizing the inaccuracy of his statement, Smith issued a public apology during the second hour of “First Take.” He acknowledged, “I didn’t mean to say he [LeBron] wasn’t in the building. I was told he was in the building. We saw a whole bunch of players out there. We didn’t see him. Why? Hmmm. I will let him answer that one day if he so chooses.”
Smith also took to social media to address the error, writing, “My apologies and clarification. I misspoke in Hour#1 of @FirstTake today when I intimated that LeBron did not attend Kobe Bryant’s memorial. I corrected myself in Hour#2 when I acknowledged he was indeed in attendance.”
Ongoing Feud Between Smith and James
This incident adds fuel to the ongoing public feud between Smith and James. The tension escalated after Smith made comments about James’s son, Bronny, suggesting that he was in the NBA primarily because of his father’s influence. James confronted Smith courtside during a Lakers game on March 6, emphasizing his role as a father in protecting his family from personal attacks.
In response to Smith’s recent remarks, James appeared on “The Pat McAfee Show” on March 26, criticizing Smith for his continuous commentary on their confrontation. James remarked that Smith “is on a Taylor Swift tour right now,” implying that Smith is excessively discussing the issue.
The public exchange continued with Smith stating on his podcast that he would have “swung” on James if their confrontation had turned physical. James responded by posting a video on Instagram mocking Smith’s boxing skills, captioned with several laughing emojis and the phrase, “WHOMP WHOMP WHOMPPPPPPP.”
As this dispute unfolds, fans and analysts alike are watching closely, hoping for a resolution that brings the focus back to the sport and honors the legacy of figures like Kobe Bryant.