Tue Mar 11 17:20:00 UTC 2025: ## LeBron James Confronts Stephen A. Smith Over Comments About Bronny
**Los Angeles, CA** – ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith revealed Friday that LeBron James confronted him following Thursday night’s Lakers game over Smith’s criticism of Bronny James’ NBA career. A video of the heated exchange went viral, prompting Smith to address the situation on *First Take*.
Smith confirmed that James approached him, expressing his anger about Smith’s on-air comments suggesting Bronny James’ position on the Lakers was due to his father’s influence. Smith described James’ words as unsuitable for broadcast, emphasizing that James reacted not as a basketball player, but as a protective father.
The incident occurred courtside at Crypto.com Arena after the Lakers’ victory over the Knicks. Smith, who recently signed a reported $100 million contract with ESPN, was sitting with Endeavor CEO Ari Emanuel and Larry David at the time.
Smith acknowledged a long-standing strained relationship with James but stated he wasn’t offended by the confrontation, although he preferred a private conversation. He maintained his stance on Bronny James’ situation, explaining that his criticism was directed at LeBron’s influence, not Bronny himself. He added that he understood James’s strong reaction as a father.
While surprised by the public nature of the confrontation, Smith expressed no animosity towards James, stating, “As a father, I get it.” The incident highlights the ongoing debate surrounding Bronny James’ place in the NBA and the intense scrutiny faced by the sons of prominent athletes.
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