HomeSportsStephen A. Smith Calls Out LeBron James for 'Weak' Handling of Bronny Drama
Stephen A. Smith Calls Out LeBron James for 'Weak' Handling of Bronny Drama

Stephen A. Smith Calls Out LeBron James for 'Weak' Handling of Bronny Drama

Sarah Johnson

Sarah Johnson

March 12, 2025

4 min read

Brief

Stephen A. Smith stands by his critique of LeBron James' parenting and Bronny's NBA readiness after a heated courtside confrontation sparks debate on sports commentary and family.

Stephen A. Smith, the outspoken ESPN analyst, is back in the headlines after doubling down on his comments about LeBron James following a courtside confrontation between the two. What started as an "unexpected" exchange during the Lakers’ overtime victory against the Knicks last Thursday has now spiraled into a heated debate about parenting and sports commentary.

The interaction was sparked by Smith’s previous remarks concerning Bronny James, LeBron’s eldest son, whose basketball career has been the subject of significant media and public scrutiny. While Smith initially expressed empathy for LeBron’s position as a protective father, he later described James’ handling of the situation as "weak" and even labeled it "some bulls---." Strong words, right?

Smith shared his thoughts during an episode of the "Gil’s Arena" podcast, where he detailed how LeBron confronted him directly, saying, "You gotta stop talking s--- about my son. That’s my son." Apparently, James took issue with Smith’s critique of his push for Bronny’s NBA career, with the analyst suggesting the young player may not yet be ready for the league. Ouch.

Smith explained that the confrontation initially confused him, as it was based on what James "thought" he had said rather than his actual commentary. However, LeBron’s further remarks during a conversation with Richard Jefferson on Saturday clarified that the issue revolved around Smith’s criticism of James’ parenting approach. Smith didn’t mince words in his response, admitting he would have fired back if LeBron had made the parenting critique clearer during their courtside exchange.

Bronny James, who was drafted out of USC in the second round of the 2024 NBA Draft, has had a rocky start in the league, averaging just 1.4 points, 0.4 rebounds, and 0.4 assists per game across 18 appearances this season. While these stats might not silence critics, it’s clear that LeBron remains fiercely protective of his son’s career and reputation.

Smith, never one to shy away from controversy, concluded that while he respects LeBron’s dedication as a father, he stands by his professional obligation to call it as he sees it. And let’s be real—Smith’s candid approach is precisely why he’s one of the most talked-about figures in sports media today.

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Editor's Comments

This whole saga feels like a classic case of sports clashing with personal pride. While I get LeBron’s need to defend his son, calling out Stephen A. in front of cameras seems more performative than effective. It's like telling someone off at a party—you’re making a scene, but are you really solving anything? And can we talk about Bronny’s stats? Maybe LeBron needs to let the kid find his footing before pushing him into the spotlight.

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