Stephen A. Smith just became one of the highest-paid media members at a major network with his new $100-million deal at ESPN, but the First Take star found himself in a weird spot recently after talking about Bronny James during a broadcast.

Copyright © 2025 Bleacher Report, Inc. A Warner Bros. Discovery Company. All Rights Reserved.

Stephen A. Smith has provided a very detailed account of his recent icy encounter with Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James over allegedly negative commentary about Bronny James. Speaking with the Underdog show Gil's Arena starring NBA vet Gilbert Arenas,

The Los Angeles Lakers will be without their superstar forward, LeBron James, for the next week or two. At least, that is the expectation for the 40-year-old.

The injury came as James drove to the basket against Jaylen Brown. He attempted a spin move and followed that up with two head fakes, eventually converting the layup. James had a slight limp after the score, but attempted to play defense on the next possession.

LeBron James doesn’t believe this latest injury is as severe as the groin injury he suffered in 2018 when he mised 17 games.