Finally a Fan? Stephen A. Smith Says He Was Impressed by Bronny James’ Performance Against the Bucks [Video]

Stephen A. Smith is finally giving Bronny James his props.

Video

After Bronny’s standout performance against the Milwaukee Bucks Thursday night, Smith has seemingly reconsidered his earlier assessment of the young player. On Friday’s “First Take,” Smith acknowledged how “impressed” he was by Bronny’s 17-point, five-rebound, and three-assist performance over 30 minutes. It was a productive night for the 19-year-old, and Smith couldn’t help but give credit where it was due.

“I was impressed,” Smith admitted, adding, “This is the big picture here that I want to bring up. I might’ve been wrong. Are you listening LeBron James? Are you listening James family? Are you listening Rich Paul? Are you listening all you people because here’s my position.”

Smith had previously suggested that Bronny would need time in the G League before stepping into an NBA role. But seeing him shine in this game, Smith said, “What I saw last night made me say to myself, ‘Wait a minute. He keeps showing up and playing like that.'”

While Smith noted that one good game isn’t enough to make a final judgment, he stated that Bronny could become a “bona fide player sooner than later” if he keeps performing at this level.

Smith also clarified that he was never “disrespecting” Bronny in his past assessment, emphasizing that his coverage would reflect the player’s performance—whether good or bad. LeBron himself had to intervene, confronting Smith during a game about his coverage of his son.