Stephen A. Smith and Cari Champion address past ESPN workplace disputes

Broadcaster Stephen A. Smith and former ESPN anchor Cari Champion discussed their contentious history during a recent episode of the podcast Flagrant and Funny. Hosted by Champion and Jemele Hill, the conversation revisited internal conflicts stemming from their shared time on the program First Take. During the exchange, Smith claimed Skip Bayless opposed Champion’s hiring, a point Champion countered by stating Smith also held that position. The two also disagreed on the circumstances surrounding Champion’s transition to SportsCenter and her eventual departure from the network. Jemele Hill joined the discussion to detail her own grievances, specifically citing a feeling of abandonment by Smith during her past suspension from ESPN. The dialogue is slated for a two-part release, with the second installment scheduled for this Friday.

• 5:18 PMYahoo Sports — Stephen A Smith, Cari Champion address ESPN drama in public debate