Sun Mar 09 15:10:00 UTC 2025: ## ESPN Inks $100 Million Deal with Stephen A. Smith, Allowing Him More Political Freedom

**NEW YORK** – Stephen A. Smith, the outspoken ESPN personality, has signed a massive new five-year contract with the network worth at least $100 million, sources told The Athletic. The deal will see Smith remain a central figure on “First Take,” but with reduced obligations across ESPN’s other programming.

This shift will allow Smith, 57, more time to pursue his growing interest in political commentary. While he will no longer be a regular on ESPN’s NBA pregame show, “Countdown,” he may still make occasional appearances on other high-profile basketball and football programs. His reduced ESPN schedule also opens opportunities for appearances on other platforms and potentially greater outside earnings.

Smith, known for his passionate opinions on a wide range of political issues and past appearances on shows like Sean Hannity’s, has even been mentioned as a potential presidential candidate. While he has downplayed any serious campaign aspirations, the new contract gives him the flexibility to pursue political opportunities further.

The agreement notably follows ESPN’s licensing deal with TNT for “Inside the NBA,” a move Smith reportedly supported. His previous contract with ESPN was worth $12 million annually. The terms of the new deal were not publicly announced.

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