Stephen A. Smith is preparing to respond after the National Association of Black Journalists gave him one of the organization’s most pointed honors at its conference in Atlanta.
Smith received the NABJ’s “Thumbs Down” award, with the organization citing what it described as his “recurring public pattern of disparaging public commentary directed at prominent Black women across politics, sports and media.”
Rather than ignore the recognition, Smith made it clear that he intends to answer back.
“This is the epitome of Christmas arriving early,” Smith wrote on social media. “The NABJ wants to call folks out, fine! You had your turn, now mine is coming.”
Smith continued by warning that he had remained quiet about the organization for years but believes NABJ has now crossed a line.
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Smith also added: “Remember @NABJ, you asked for it. I’ve shut my mouth for years. Now y’all started something.”
The award was presented as more than simply a criticism of Smith. NABJ President Errin Haines reportedly emphasized that the “Thumbs Down” was intended as a “call to do better.”
Smith, however, appears ready to turn the controversy into a larger conversation about NABJ, its leadership and its role within the Black journalism community.
He is expected to address the situation publicly, potentially adding another chapter to an increasingly heated relationship between the outspoken ESPN personality and the journalism organization.
For now, Smith says the ball is in his court—and judging by his response, he intends to use the platform to make his case.
