ESPN star and 2028 presidential hopeful Stephen A. Smith might be letting the news cycle surrounding his political ambitions get to his head. While the label “presidential hopeful” may seem exaggerated for the First Take host at this point in time, he hasn’t shied away from the attention he receives for his political musings, often fueling the fire on social media. According to the prediction market exchange Kalshi, Smith is currently the fourth most-likely 2028 Democratic nominee for president.
Even in his role as an NBA analyst, he addresses the American public as if he’s on a debate stage. “America, you don’t give a damn about the Sixers. And neither do we. We’re reporting the news because Shams is great… THEY ARE DONE! THIS SEASON IS OVER!… LOSE! SIT JOEL EMBIID FOR THE REST OF THE SEASON… THIS SEASON IS A JOKE!” he exclaimed, as captured in a recent
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“America,” he implores solemnly, “You don’t give a damn about the Sixers. And neither do we.” This melodramatic delivery may be a fair representation of sentiment, as the Philadelphia 76ers, with a record of 20-36, currently sit in 12th place in the Eastern Conference, two spots away from a play-in slot.
Smith pleads with the camera about Joel Embiid’s performance, questioning when he last looked good or moved well this season. “They are DONE! This season is over, the city knows it, there’s no brotherly love for the Sixers!” He urges the team to tank for a better draft pick, suggesting, “Sit Joel Embiid for the rest of the season,” echoing sentiments from Kendrick Perkins last year. “We know they’re not healthy.”
While Stephen A.’s opinions may not be groundbreaking, it’s the styling of his delivery that stands out (think Big Chris Christie meets Bill de Blasio energy). Is he getting in some practice before the campaign trail heats up in a few years? It certainly seems so. If anyone has mastered the art of speaking authoritatively on topics they may not fully understand—an essential trait for a presidential candidate—it’s Smith. He often articulates his thoughts on non-sporting matters on his podcast and cable news appearances. Nonetheless, it’s refreshing to see the face of ESPN deliver a pointed sports commentary, even as his political aspirations subtly influence his approach.
