After more than two decades associated with ESPN’s NBA studio programming, Stephen A. Smith has officially stepped away from the network’s flagship pregame show, NBA Countdown. This development, confirmed in November 2025, marks a significant transition for the veteran sports commentator and the popular ESPN broadcast.
Stephen A. Smith first joined ESPN’s NBA studio coverage in 2003 when the show was known as NBA Shootaround. Over the years, he became a staple personality, notably part of NBA Countdown since its 2021 iteration. His outspoken style and expert analysis made him a defining voice of ESPN’s basketball coverage. Nevertheless, his departure from the studio show was widely anticipated following Smith’s new contract signing earlier this year.
In March 2025, Smith inked a lucrative $105 million deal with ESPN, signaling a shift in his broadcasting focus. According to reporting from The Athletic’s Andrew Marchand at the time, Smith would no longer serve as a regular on NBA Countdown, though occasional appearances across ESPN’s top basketball and other major sports programs would remain on the table. Now, this plan has come to fruition as ESPN unveiled a fresh-look NBA Countdown lineup featuring new personalities such as Kendrick Perkins, Michael Malone, Brian Windhorst, and Shams Charania, led by host Malika Andrews—but without Smith’s presence.
The change reflects evolving priorities for both Smith and ESPN. The broadcaster has expanded his workload with multiple shows on SiriusXM radio and continues to be a prominent figure on ESPN’s First Take, the platform where he remains a marquee star. Meanwhile, ESPN’s NBA studio coverage faces stiff competition, especially since Inside the NBA on TNT holds licensing rights that have elevated it as the premier NBA pregame show in recent seasons.
For Smith, this adjustment allows greater focus on varied projects while maintaining visibility during key basketball moments. For ESPN, refreshing the NBA Countdown cast aligns with the company’s strategic shifts and the changing sports media landscape. While some fans felt a sense of surprise or disappointment at the announcement of his departure from NBA Countdown, the move fits within the broader evolution of his illustrious career.
Looking ahead, Stephen A. Smith’s influence on sports media remains unquestioned. Though no longer a full-time fixture on NBA Countdown, he continues to shape passionate sports conversations and will likely appear on ESPN platforms during marquee events. As one chapter closes, another unfolds for the celebrated commentator, whose voice and insight remain vital to basketball fans nationwide.
By Ben Axelrod
Veteran sports media writer covering major network developments and personalities.
