The outspoken ESPN analyst joined Gil’s Arena podcast and was asked directly about his current relationship with the NBA superstar.
Smith explained that while he has immense respect for LeBron’s career and legacy on the court, their personal issues run much deeper. He praised James as “the second greatest player in the history of basketball,” noting his four championships, four MVP awards, and role as an ambassador for the game. But Smith drew a sharp line between admiring LeBron the player and respecting LeBron the man.
According to Smith, behind-the-scenes incidents soured their relationship long before it reached the public eye. He hinted at conversations and actions that, in his view, were attempts to hurt his reputation and career. But the final breaking point came when James publicly reacted to Smith’s commentary about his son, Bronny. Smith insists his original comments were directed at LeBron himself—not at Bronny. However, James went on The Pat McAfee Show, which airs right after Smith’s own ESPN program, and framed the situation as an attack on his family. For Smith, that was the last straw.