Just thinking of Stephen A. Smith reacting to the Knicks in real-time is enough to swear off any competing network.
According to The Big Lead, ESPN is looking to combat TNT's Inside the NBA by bringing Smith's boisterous but popular personality to its NBA studio coverage. It's just one of several changes ESPN is reportedly making to its NBA lineup. Last week, it was reported that the network will swap Michelle Beadle for Rachel Nichols and Maria Taylor as the hosts of its popular NBA Countdown pre-game show.
Also, Chauncey Billups will move to color commentary, while Jalen Rose will continue to be a studio analyst. Paul Pierce's future on the show is yet to be determined, according to The Athletic's Richard Deitsch.
Along with First Take, Stephen A. hosts a daily two-hour show on ESPN Radio in addition to making guest appearances on various programs. Per Yahoo, Smith is expected to be a part of ESPN's Wednesday night NBA coverage, which indicates that he'd be a featured studio analyst rather than the host of a show.
Although fans might only get Smith in short bursts, he's sure to provide hilarious commentary that will liven up ESPN's NBA studio coverage. And if you needed a reminder of what's to come, here are some of Stephen A.'s signature moments.
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"This is the absolute worst day in the history of the New York Knicks franchise," Smith said on 'First Take.'
