Stephen A. Smith Has COVID-19, Will Miss “First Take” For The Rest Of The Week

Stephen A. Smith has revealed that he tested positive for COVID-19.

The sports anchor appeared virtually on Tuesday’s episode of “First Take,” where he told viewers that his diagnosis was the reason he missed Monday’s episode. The 54-year-old says he began experiencing mild symptoms and a fever over the weekend. Smith told co-host Molly Qerim Rose, that he was tested three times the week prior to his positive test, though all of those came back negative. However, after filming Saturday’s episode of “First Take,” he tested positive for the virus.

Smith credits his mild symptoms with being fully vaccinated, though he has not received the booster shot. He says that he would likely be feeling worse if it were not for the shot. His voice was noticeably hoarse, but he says he is feeling fine.

The two then shifted the conversation to Kyrie Irving, who has publicly refused to get vaccinated, as required under NBA protocols. The Brooklyn Nets recently agreed to bring him back on the team in response to several players being out due to injuries or positive COVID-19 tests. However, Smith says he feels like allowing Irving to play is the wrong decision for the team.

“To watch the Brooklyn Nets reverse course and take this position is one of the most shameful things I think they could have ever done,” Smith stated.