Skip Bayless (Image Credit: All The Smoke/Youtube)
Sports analyst Stephen A. Smith is one of the most recognized figures in NBA sports media coverage. He is currently a commentator on ESPN’s “First Take,” where he appears alongside Molly Qerim. Despite his successful career in NBA media coverage, Smith once pleaded with his former franchise to rehire him.

In a recent episode of All the Smoke podcast, former FS1 Undisputed host Skip Bayless reflected on his attempts to persuade ESPN to rehire Smith. Although Bayless left the Undisputed show in August 2024, his comments are likely to continue appearing on various podcasts. He noted that his former co-host consistently sought help following his dismissal.

“Stephen A. got pushed out the back door in Bristol. They did not renew him and I don’t know, you’d have to ask him the real backstory, but he came out here to Fox Sports Radio and he was here for, two years? You can ask my wife about this, he would call me every day and say, ‘Can you get me back on the Worldwide Leader?’” Bayless said.

In an interview, Smith clarified that ESPN did not fire him in 2009. He stated that the network offered him an unsatisfactory contract, which made him feel undervalued and ultimately led to his decision to leave the organization. However, after his departure, he expressed a desire to collaborate with the franchise again, as Bayless noted.

Bayless Pushes ESPN Executives To Bring Back Stephen A. Smith

After leaving ESPN, Smith worked for Fox Sports Radio before returning to the popular sports network in 2011. Upon his return, he became a columnist for ESPN.com and hosted weekday local radio shows on 1050 ESPN Radio in New York. His return to the network was largely facilitated by Bayless, who urged many ESPN officials to rehire Smith.

“I would beat on every door in that building. You can ask them all if I didn’t just keep saying, ‘What are we doing? This is ridiculous. He’s gifted, he’s a force, we gotta get him back here.’ And finally, I think it took two years.” Bayless said.

Over the years, Smith has built a substantial and dedicated fanbase for his shows. This success is largely due to his sharp insights and analytical commentary on NBA players and the complex dynamics of the league. The analyst’s talent for breaking down player performances, discussing strategic elements of the game, and offering unique perspectives on team rivalries has resonated with basketball enthusiasts.