Stephen A. Smith criticized by NABJ over remarks on Black women
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 20, 2026, 11:45 PM
Last updated Aug 20, 2026

Stephen A. Smith faces backlash from the National Association of Black Journalists, which presented him with a ‘Thumbs Down’ award for comments deemed disparaging towards prominent Black women. At the NABJ annual conference in Atlanta, the award highlighted Smith's ‘recurring public pattern of disparaging commentary’. Smith, known for his bold media presence, responded defiantly on social media, vowing retaliation against the NABJ. This controversy emerges amid Smith's recent appearances on Fox News and criticisms directed at LeBron James, indicating growing tensions within the Black community regarding his media persona. As public reaction evolves, the ongoing fallout is likely to shape Smith's future engagements in the industry.
- •Smith received a ‘Thumbs Down’ award from the NABJ for his commentary.
- •The NABJ criticized him for disparaging remarks about Black women.
- •Smith vowed to retaliate against the NABJ's criticism.
- •The backlash indicates division within the African American community over Smith's approach.
- •Smith's recent media appearances have fueled ongoing controversies.
- 11:45 PMYahoo Sports — ‘Smith vowed revenge, and did it on white media’: Stephen A. Smith facing major backlash
"Longtime ESPN reporter Stephen A. Smith has never backed down from public criticism. Decades deep into his career, he remains one of the strongest and boldest voices in sports media. His latest opponents are the National Association of Black Journalists, who recently called him out for his “lack of accountability.” Last Saturday, the association gave…
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