In the NBA, drama has been building between LeBron James and Stephen A. Smith. Arguably the greatest basketball player to ever touch the court and ESPN's top insider have had a lot to say publicly over the last couple weeks.
Most recently, Stephen A. Smith had a 15 minute long rant on First Take discussing how LeBron went on the Pat McAfee Show and continued to "lie" about what was going on.
On the Dan Patrick Show, Auburn Tigers legend Charles Barkley made an appearance and was asked about the ongoing drama. Barkley began his response by saying "they both had an awful week."
"I've always liked LeBron, but him being a bully, it turned me off. But I will say this, Stephen A., the way he reacted, was so lame and weak."
– Charles Barkley on the ongoing LeBron James/Stephen A. Smith saga. pic.twitter.com/sS9weLivcs
— Dan Patrick Show (@dpshow) March 28, 2025
Barkley focuses in on how both James and Smith are "good dudes" and the reactions that they are giving are "lame and weak."
In this segment on the Dan Patrick Show, Barkley states that LeBron started it, and Smith dragged it on, and he is unsure as to why that is.
The two A-list stars' drama seems to be the only thing being talked about, and maybe that is part of it. LeBron James and Stephen A. Smith are known for dominating headlines, and this feud has solidified their position at the center of sports media discussions.
Barkley's assertion that "it can never be personal" underscores a core principle of sports analysis: maintaining professionalism while delivering honest critiques. Analysts who balance sharp criticism with respect tend to build trust and credibility with their audience.
This is where Stephen A. Smith's approach faltered-allowing personal elements to overshadow professional insights risks alienating both fans and peers. Barkley's comment serves as a reminder that staying objective, even in heated debates, is what separates the respected analysts from the controversial ones.
As the drama evolves, it raises questions about how Smith's fiery commentary and LeBron's role as an active superstar might influence their approach to public criticism-and their interactions with each other.
Related: Cam Newton Gives Bronny James New Nickname
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This story was originally published March 28, 2025 at 11:50 AM.