Stephen A. Smith No Longer Part Of ESPN' "NBA Countdown" Crew

He's still everywhere else on ESPN, but Sunday nights just won't hit the same. After more than ten years on ESPN's NBA pregame show, Stephen A. Smith is no longer part of "NBA Countdown," but not for the reason that most originally presumed. During his five-year contract negotiations finalized between June 2024 and early 2025, Smith specifically requested to step away from the show's regular duties. 

Originally thought to have been dismissed by ESPN, Smith’s decision makes perfect sense when you look at his schedule. Smith explained he loved doing the show but didn't want to be stuck in the studio until midnight, especially with his morning talk show responsibilities. Between hosting "First Take" five days a week, his SiriusXM shows, and countless other commitments, something had to give.

Still, his absence will be noticed as Smith brought an intensity to that desk that few can match, with the emphatic hand gestures, the "blasphemous" declarations, or his back-and-forth banter with co-workers. He wasn't just filling airtime; he was genuinely invested in every conversation, every debate, every storyline.

What made Smith special on "NBA Countdown" was the same thing that makes him work everywhere: he cares deeply about basketball and knows how to articulate that passion. Whether sparring with Kendrick Perkins or breaking down playoff matchups, Stephen A. elevated the pregame and halftime show experience. 

ESPN officially announced the "new-look" team featuring Malika Andrews as host, joined by Brian Windhorst, Michael Malone, Kendrick Perkins, and Shams Charania. They're all talented, but there was something unique about what Stephen A. brought to the team that will be missed.