Report: ESPN Giving Stephen A Smith 100 Million Reasons To Re-Up

Stephen A. Smith has inked a lucrative new five-year contract with ESPN, valued at a minimum of $100 million, securing his role as the star of First Take while reducing his obligations across other network programming, according to sources familiar with the deal who spoke to The Athletic. This adjustment will allow Smith to maintain his presence on the daily morning show that has become his signature platform, while dialing back his appearances elsewhere on ESPN, freeing up time for him to expand his commentary on political topics outside the network.

Under the terms of the agreement, which sources shared anonymously due to an anticipated lack of public disclosure, Smith will remain a cornerstone of First Take but step away from being a regular fixture on ESPN’s flagship NBA pregame show, Countdown, which airs before The Finals. However, he may still pop up occasionally on major basketball studio broadcasts, as well as during high-profile events like the Monday Night Football pregame. ESPN, when approached, declined to offer any comment on the matter.

The shift comes as ESPN has entered a licensing deal with TNT to integrate the popular Charles Barkley-fronted Inside The NBA into its lineup, a move Smith has publicly endorsed. His reduced ESPN commitments are expected to open doors for more frequent appearances on external platforms, particularly to discuss politics, while also providing opportunities to boost his income beyond his ESPN salary.

At 57, Smith has become increasingly outspoken on political matters, frequently weighing in on figures like President Donald Trump and former Vice President Kamala Harris, as well as broader current events. His commentary has gained such traction that some have even floated his name as a potential presidential contender. Beyond ESPN, Smith has been a regular guest on shows like Fox News with Sean Hannity and uses his independent platform, The Stephen A. Smith Show, to delve into topics far removed from sports, cementing his status as a prominent media voice.