Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Stephen A. Smith Calls NABJ “Thumbs Down” a Hit Job

8/18/2026

44 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

ESPN host Stephen A. Smith called the National Association of Black Journalists a hit job after its “Thumbs Down” award at an Atlanta gala.
Smith said President Errin Haines never contacted him and his request to discuss the award went nowhere.
He claimed the award punished his criticism of Rep. Jasmine Crockett and other Black women, yet he will support the NABJ because a job fair there launched his career ago.

1 of 1

Story summary

ESPN host Stephen A. Smith called the National Association of Black Journalists a hit job after its “Thumbs Down” award at an Atlanta gala.
Smith said President Errin Haines never contacted him and his request to discuss the award went nowhere.
He claimed the award punished his criticism of Rep. Jasmine Crockett and other Black women, yet he will support the NABJ because a job fair there launched his career ago.