Full Breakdown
Stephen A. Smith and Sage Steele Discuss Transgender Athletes in Women's Sports
4/3/2026, 1:24:14 AM
Contentious Dialogue on Transgender Participation
In a recent episode of Sage Steele's podcast, former ESPN colleagues Stephen A. Smith and Steele engaged in a heated discussion regarding the participation of transgender athletes in women's sports. Steele questioned Smith about his delayed public stance on the issue, prompting Smith to clarify that he had addressed the topic of Lia Thomas, a transgender swimmer at the University of Pennsylvania, from the outset on ESPN's "First Take." The conversation highlighted a broader concern about the silence of male athletes in prominent positions regarding this contentious issue.
The Silence of Male Athletes
Steele expressed frustration over the reluctance of male athletes, particularly those with significant financial security, to speak out against transgender women competing in women's sports. She emphasized that many of these athletes, who have substantial wealth and influence, should feel a responsibility to protect female athletes, especially those who are their daughters. Steele remarked, "Are you going to let a young man at the volleyball net play against your daughter knowing what’s at risk?" This sentiment reflects a growing concern about the safety and fairness for biological females in competitive sports.
Perspectives on Courage and Responsibility
Smith responded to Steele's concerns by suggesting that many individuals only act when issues directly affect them. He noted that while some people are willing to use their platforms to advocate for change, others remain silent. Smith stated, "Some people, when it comes to politics, it's been a cesspool. This is the latest issue." This acknowledgment of the political landscape surrounding the topic indicates a recognition of the complexities involved in public discourse on transgender issues.
Criticism of Inaction
Steele criticized her peers in the sports industry for not standing up for women's rights in sports, asserting that if more sportscasters had taken a stand, the current situation might be different. Smith agreed, pointing out that those willing to advocate for the greater good are often in the minority. He emphasized the need for a collective effort to protect young female athletes, stating unequivocally, "There is no excuse for that."
Official Statements & Responses
Both Smith and Steele's comments reflect a growing consensus among some commentators that biological males should not compete against biological females in sports. Smith recently reiterated this stance on "Real Time with Bill Maher," asserting, "biological men should not be competing against biological girls in sports, period." This position aligns with reported public sentiment, where nearly 80% of individuals believe that transgender athletes should not compete against biological females.
Verbatim Quotes
- “ SAGE STEELE RECALLS HOW STEPHEN A SMITH WARNED HER AGAINST SPEAKING OUT WHILE STILL AT ESPN "Some guys, some people, and this is very, very sad, some people don't care about a damn thing unless it affects them directly.” — Stephen A. Smith, Sports Commentator
- “Are you going to let a young man at the volleyball net play against your daughter knowing what’s at risk?” — Sage Steele, Sports Commentator
The dialogue between Smith and Steele underscores the ongoing debate surrounding transgender participation in sports, highlighting the complexities of advocacy, responsibility, and the need for open discourse in the sports community.
