For over two decades, “Inside the NBA” has entertained basketball enthusiasts with its captivating broadcasts. However, concerns about the show’s future arose due to ongoing media rights issues. Recently, it was announced that the show will continue, as TNT will license “Inside the NBA” to ESPN. After the news, rumors about the possible hiring of Stephen A. Smith on the show started.
The show, featuring Charles Barkley and Shaquille O’Neal, has been a favorite among NBA fans. Adding Smith to this impressive cast could be a great way to attract even more viewers. However, ESPN president Burke Magnus recently clarified in an interview with Sports Illustrated that this will not happen.
“We have no plans to do that. And that’s because, frankly, the construct of the deal really doesn’t — that’s not how it was conceived,” Magnus said. “What is conceived is that Turner, as they have always done with this show, with this cast, with the people involved behind the scenes, are going to continue to do what they’ve always done. We don’t want to change it, we don’t want to interject new talent into it. We don’t want to really do anything to it.“
Magnus affirmed that ESPN intends to maintain the current format of the Inside the NBA program without changes. He highlighted his desire to preserve the existing cast and stated that he currently has no plans to include Smith.
Stephen A. Smith’s Unfiltered Take On Bronny James’
The Los Angeles Lakers selected Bronny James in the second round of the 2024 NBA Draft. However, his debut in the league didn’t meet expectations, as NBA fans criticized him with accusations of nepotism. Additionally, his struggles in the G League drew further criticism. In light of James Jr.’s current situation, NBA analyst Smith made a blunt statement regarding his performance.
“First of all, there’s no question. Let’s cut the BS. “There’s no question it was a favor, Bronny James did not do what it takes to earn a spot on an NBA roster,” Smith said on the ‘Full Send Podcast.’
LeBron James has consistently expressed a desire to share the court with his son, a dream that was actualized upon Bronny’s selection. Moreover, the James duo became the first father-son duo to play together in NBA history.
