Stephen A. Smith Reveals FBI Protection and Talks About His Tense Feud with LeBron James During Knicks-Lakers Game in New York

Stephen A. Smith recently opened up about the ongoing feud with NBA superstar LeBron James and his constant security presence, revealing that he is protected by the FBI wherever he goes.

The ESPN personality reflected on the tension between him and James, particularly after their March altercation during a Knicks-Lakers game, and shed light on the heavy security he keeps around him due to his high-profile status.

Smith Claims He’s Protected by the FBI Everywhere He Goes

In a new interview, Smith confirmed his earlier remarks that he is always accompanied by a robust security detail, stating that he is shielded by local police, FBI, and his bodyguard.

The 330-pound bodyguard, whom Smith described as “like a brother” to him, ensures his safety at all times.

Smith explained that he is viewed as a valuable investment, contributing significantly to ESPN’s revenue, which is why his security is taken seriously.

“I’m always guarded because I’m an investment,” Smith explained in his conversation with Complex’s Speedy Morman.

“We got people out here that’s got people protecting them, and they bringing in a little paper. I make a lot of money for the mouse.”

Smith added that his bodyguard’s size and presence would have made any altercation with James a quick affair.

He emphasized that while he doesn’t enjoy violence, he’s not afraid to defend himself if necessary.

The Feud with LeBron James Over Bronny

Smith’s conflict with LeBron James began when he criticized James’ parenting of his son, Bronny James, following a series of on-air comments.

While Smith initially claimed that James was “exposing” his son, the situation escalated when James confronted Smith at a Knicks-Lakers game in March.

Smith later stated that had James touched him, he would have physically reacted.

However, Smith clarified that he was never trying to belittle Bronny’s career but instead voiced concerns about the way James handled the situation publicly.

In response, James addressed Smith’s comments in a conversation on The Pat McAfee Show, where he clarified his stance, explaining that his issue wasn’t with basketball criticism but with Smith’s personal remarks about his parenting.

James noted, “Never would I ever not allow people to talk about the sport, criticize players about what they do on the court.

That is your job… When you take it and get personal with it, it’s my job to protect my household.”

LeBron’s Response and the Fallout

Despite Smith’s defense of his comments, it’s clear that James took issue with what he viewed as an attack on his family.

In an off-the-record conversation with NBA analyst Richard Jefferson, James could be heard discussing his frustration with Smith’s remarks, particularly the line about pleading as a father.

“That’s the only thing I’m tripping on,” James said. “Once he talks about: ‘I’m pleading to you as a father,’ I can’t.”

Bronny James’ First NBA Season

While the drama between Smith and LeBron James continues to unfold, Bronny James is quietly making his mark in his rookie NBA season.

As a second-round pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, Bronny played 27 games for the Lakers, primarily during garbage time.

However, he showed signs of progress, including a career-high 17 points in a March game against the Milwaukee Bucks.

Currently, the Lakers are tied 1-1 in their first-round playoff series against the Minnesota Timberwolves, and all eyes will continue to be on the James family, both on and off the court.