Longtime ESPN reporter Stephen A. Smith has never backed down from public criticism. Decades deep into his career, he remains one of the strongest and boldest voices in sports media. His latest opponents are the National ****** ociation of Black Journalists, who recently called him out for his "lack of accountability."
Last Saturday, the ****** ociation gave Smith a "Thumbs Down" award at its annual conference in Atlanta, citing what it called Smith's "recurring public pattern of disparaging commentary directed at prominent Black women across politics, sports, and media."
It didn't take long for Smith to address the "award."
"This is the epitome of Christmas arriving early. The NABJ wants to call folks out, fine! You had your turn, now mine is coming. And make no mistake…..,I'm coming. Let's see who REALLY deserves a Thumbs Down award when it comes to the Black Community, after I say my peace! Remember NABJ, you asked for it. I've shut my mouth for years. Now y'all started something," Smith posted on X.
Joseph Williams of Word in Black wrote that "the only shocking part was that anyone expected him to sit with it."

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