Stephen A Smith Claps Back at ‘Part-Time Knicks Fan’ Jibe From Josh Hart

Stephen A. Smith responds to Josh Hart telling him 'to shut the hell up'.

Stephen A Smith Claps Back at ‘Part-Time Knicks Fan’ Jibe From Josh Hart

Stephen A. Smith and Josh Hart (Image credits - Firstsportz)

In Short
  • Stephen A. Smith defended his Knicks fandom after Josh Hart labeled him a part-time fan.
  • Smith emphasized his extensive experience covering the NBA and his connections within the league.
  • The exchange highlights the growing tension between NBA players and media personalities.

There seems to be a growing disconnect between players and the media over the last few years. The beef between New York Knicks star Josh Hart and American television personality Stephen A. Smith is the latest example.

Gone are the days when the media were allowed to create their own narratives. As more and more NBA players start their own podcasts, it gives them an opportunity to connect with their fans and respond to narratives built against them. This has been termed as the “new media” by Draymond Green, who runs a successful podcast of his own.

Stephen A. Smith responded to Hart, calling him a part-time Knicks fan on his podcast.

I spent 20 years covering the NBA and I’m on the road and in locker rooms for over 100 games a year. And because my success on television has me in studio, and I’m not there at the games the way that i used to be. What did I say about the New York Knicks that requires me to know anybody? First of all, you don’t who I know. Secondly, you don’t know who talks to me. Thirdly, you don’t even know how close I am to the people that cut your checks. Josh Hart, clearly you haven’t done your homework.

Stephen A. Smith on The Stephen A. Smith Show

Stephen A. Smith is an avid fan of the New York Knicks. Known for his passion and hot takes, the ESPN analyst was critical of Josh Hart‘s teammate Mikal Bridges‘ performance over the last few weeks. Following the criticism, Hart had a few words for Smith, which did not go down well with the 58-year-old. This comes a few days after Smith took shots at a fellow journalist, Jason Whitlock.

This is not the first time Smith has been involved in a beef with an NBA player. A few months ago, he was engaged in a back-and-forth with LeBron James after the latter confronted him over some comments he made about Bronny James. It remains to be seen if Hart responds to Smith’s latest statements or gives it a pass.

Fans react to Stephen A. Smith’s response to Josh Hart

Stephen A. Smith has been a prominent figure in the American sports world for a while now. His show First Take on ESPN is a popular show amongst sports fans and has been running for nearly 20 years now. With his popularity growing, Smith has started his own podcast and has his own show, highlighting his successful career.

Following his response to Josh Hart, fans took to social media to react to his statements.

While some fans praised Smith’s response to Hart, some believed they were unnecessary and hoped that this beef would not go any further.

Josh Hart’s blunt message to Stephen A. Smith

Josh Hart is known for his bold and outspoken personality. Known for his hustle plays, high motor, and rebounding ability, the Knicks forward is an instrumental player on the team and will be a crucial player in the playoffs.

Josh Hart grateful towards Tom Thibodeau
Josh Hart with Tom Thibodeau (FS Image)

After Smith had some harsh comments for Bridges on First Take, Hart did not hold back on the lifelong Knicks fan.

For me, I think Stephen A., as a part-time Knicks fan, needs to shut the hell up. He barely knows guys that are on the team.

Josh Hart on Newsday’s Steve Popper

Both Hart and Bridges are important players on the Knicks roster. While Bridges has seen a dip in form on the offensive end, his defensive prowess is second to none. The Knicks are currently third in the Eastern Conference standings and will be looking to go one better than last season.

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