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Stephen A. Smith Redefines Role Amid $100M Contract

11/20/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Stephen A. Smith, ESPN analyst, will step back from his full-time NBA Countdown role as part of negotiating his five-year, $100 million contract with the network.
He has not been demoted and will still make guest appearances on NBA Countdown as needed.
Smith said the move lets him focus on other responsibilities, including First Take and other projects.
He announced the change on his show, clarifying it was his decision.

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Story summary

Stephen A. Smith, ESPN analyst, will step back from his full-time NBA Countdown role as part of negotiating his five-year, $100 million contract with the network.
He has not been demoted and will still make guest appearances on NBA Countdown as needed.
Smith said the move lets him focus on other responsibilities, including First Take and other projects.
He announced the change on his show, clarifying it was his decision.