Stephen A Smith burns bridges with Lebron James as the goat debate rages on

A few weeks ago, the NBA world was shaken by a public confrontation between Lakers star LeBron James and sports commentator Stephen A Smith. Since then, headlines surrounding the two have been non-stop, with the controversy continuing to build.

While it initially seemed like the situation had been put to rest, the tension appears stronger than ever. Stephen A Smith initially claimed to understand LeBron‘s position as a father after criticism of Bronny James sparked the clash. However, as the dispute developed, Smith shifted his stance, suggesting that LeBron’s reaction stemmed from deeper issues.

Stephen A Smith’s new Strategy

In an effort to close the chapter on his feud with LeBron, Smith has taken a different approach. However, the commentator has made it clear that he remains upset over how the events unfolded.

Stephen A Smith didn’t appreciate being confronted by LeBron James in public during a Lakers game. Days later, he argued that the confrontation wasn’t actually about Bronny. Instead, he believes LeBron’s response was tied to the ongoing debate over the greatest player of all time.

A War of words

Stephen A Smith hasn’t held back in his criticism of LeBron James, further fueling the controversy and drawing backlash from fans. While the 57-year-old has expressed a desire to end the feud, he couldn’t resist making his position clear one last time.

Stephen A Smith says him and Lebron dont get along because he doesnt Worship him like Shannon Sharpe 🔥🔥

“I aint Shannon Sharpe, it aint Goat status this way.Michael Jordan is my Goat, He aint my Goat, I know a Goat when i see one” pic.twitter.com/H9nTKdLcH3

— Thetruth (@Thetruth8240) March 19, 2025

“We don’t get along. There are plenty of reasons, and I’ve mentioned some of them. But we know the main one. I’m not Shannon Sharpe; this isn’t how you reach GOAT status. My greatest player is Michael Jordan. He’s not my GOAT. I recognize greatness when I see it,” Stephen A Smith stated.

He also emphasized that his opinion will never change. For Stephen A Smith, Michael Jordan will always be the greatest player in NBA history, and he believes this conviction has played a role in his strained relationship with LeBron James.

Clearing the air on Bronny

On his show, The Stephen A Smith Show, Smith reiterated that he hasn’t spoken poorly about LeBron or Bronny James.

“I don’t hide. If I’m wrong, I’ll admit it. If I’m right, I’m right. I never mocked Bronny James. wouldn’t do that to the James family… I was speaking about one person. Maybe we’ll never talk again in this lifetime. That’s fine. I get paid to talk about people, not to them,” Stephen A Smith declared.

LeBron’s silence speaks volumes

Despite the media frenzy, LeBron James has remained silent since the confrontation. He hasn’t addressed the topic on social media or during public appearances. Perhaps the NBA legend has chosen to steer clear of escalating the situation any further.

Stephen A Smith has now also declared the feud over. However, it seems clear that any potential relationship between the two has reached a dead end, with no bridges left to rebuild.