Stephen A. Smith has always had it for LeBron James, and the latest Hennessy commercial gave him another reason to slam the Los Angeles Lakers star. After LeBron duped fans with his "Second Decision" announcement, the First Take host accused the four-time NBA champion like never before.
LeBron is seen as a major contender to rival Michael Jordan when it comes to the Greatest of All Time or shortly called GOAT debate. Over the years, with the Lakers star surpassing MJ in several fronts, analysts have started to jump ship or at least consider LeBron in the same league as the six-time NBA champion. But Smith hasn't, and he accused the Lakers star of "stat-padding" in his latest retort to get on top of the GOAT debate.
“He’s going to be 41, he’s in his 23rd year, stat-padding his way to make ignorant folks out there think that’s going to make him the GOAT over Jordan — not realizing that most of the stuff it took him 20+ years to do, Jordan did in 13,” the ESPN analyst said on his The Stephen A. Smith Show.
“He’s going to be 41, he’s in his 23rd year, stat-padding his way to make ignorant folks out there think that’s going to make him the GOAT over Jordan — not realizing that most of the stuff it took him 20+ years to do, Jordan did in 13.”😳
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) October 9, 2025
- Stephen A.
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Last season, LeBron James let his frustration out on Stephen A. Smith when he met him on the NBA court. It was about the analyst's harsh take for his son, Bronny, whom the Lakers drafted last year.
Stephen A. Smith’s bitter relationship with LeBron James rekindled over Hennessy ad
Like many, Stephen A. Smith also didn't like it one bit when LeBron used the "Second Decision" announcement to promote his limited edition bottle for Hennessy. Many were expecting that the four-time NBA champion would talk about his retirement or at least give a hint on when he will finally call it quits on his long career. He had some strong words to slam LeBron.
“This was corny as h—. It was cringy; it was all of that — we know this,” Smith said. “You’re promoting an alcoholic beverage and trying to give people the impression that this could be your final season.”
Despite retirement rumors picking up, LeBron is in no mood to call it quits just yet. He is coming off a season where he averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, 8.2 assists and 1.0 steals. His next season with the Lakers will probably be his final time playing for the Purple and Gold. With the presence of 'lean' Luka Doncic, a potential fifth NBA championship might be on the horizon.