Stephen A. Smith Reflects on Knicks Criticism After Historic NBA Title

ESPN star Stephen A. Smith, a prominent critic of the New York Knicks, shifted his stance this week after the team secured their first NBA championship in over fifty years. The longtime host of ‘First Take’ attended a live taping of the ‘Roommates Show’ podcast, hosted by Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart. The podcast event was streamed from the Infosys Theater at Madison Square Garden, one day after the Knicks celebrated their championship with a ticker-tape parade.

Smith faced booing shortly after arriving on stage. The disapproval increased when Hart mentioned keeping track of Smith’s past criticisms of the Knicks. A notable point was Smith’s previous statement about Villanova’s 2016 national championship team lacking NBA-level talent. Despite these comments, Hart, Brunson, and Mikal Bridges became NBA players who significantly contributed to the Knicks’ success. Brunson joined the Knicks in 2022, a decision that Smith had criticized by saying Brunson was “not the answer” for the team.

After discussing Smith’s past remarks, Hart highlighted the championship trophy beside him, challenging Smith to admit he was wrong. Smith accepted the criticism without resistance and publicly apologized to Brunson, Hart, and the Knicks organization. He expressed humility, admitting his contentment at being wrong. Smith emphasized, “I have never been more happy to be wrong in my life.” He shared his lifelong Knicks fandom, reflecting on his age and the last championship win when he was only four years old.

Although Smith’s apology was sincere, he suggested it might have served a purpose. He argued that if his criticism helped motivate the Knicks to end their championship drought, he would not hesitate to repeat his actions. He stated, “If it means another championship, I would do it again.” The podcast episode also featured appearances from Karl-Anthony Towns, Miles McBride, and former Knicks star Carmelo Anthony.