The war of words between Stephen A. Smith and Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James has taken on a life of its own over the last few weeks.

Why LeBron James confronted Stephen A. Smith about Bronny James

What began as an in person confrontation has now spanned podcasts, television shows and more. James made comments on “The Pat McAfee Show” that sparked an extended discussion on Thursday’s episode of ESPN’s “First Take.”

During that discussion, Smith said that James did not attend Kobe Bryant’s memorial in 2020. James did attend the event, but elected not to announce his presence out of respect. Smith took to social media to issue an apology for his statement on Thursday.

“My apologies and clarification. I misspoke in Hour#1 of First Take today when I intimated that LeBron did not attend Kobe Bryant’s memorial,” Smith said.

“I corrected myself in Hour#2 when I acknowledged he was indeed in attendance. My mistake. Should not have even broached that subject. It was not my main point. I retract NOTHING else that I said. Have a nice day!”

Stephen A. Smith on ESPN.

ESPN featured commentator and executive producer on set on February 07, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Aaron M. Sprecher/Getty Images

Despite Smith taking the time to apologize, many fans were upset with Smith for bringing up Bryant’s memorial at all.

“Really tried to ruin a dude whole character and public image …bringing up the deceased..bc YOU’RE mad. Damn near was red in the face and had the nerve to say someone else was in their feelings…this is weird & behavior and I’ve never seen u go this hard for something,” one fan said.

“This man used kobes death in this and thinks it’s okay this man is the true narcissist,” said another fan.

“You made this a ploy to rile up Lakers fans and Kobe fans that he is ‘not one of yall’ and it backfired. You went there and it’s insensitive at best. Trash apology,” one fan added.

Stephen A. Smith, LeBron James beef needs to end sooner than later

“we miss when you actually talked about sports and not click bait every chance you get,” another fan said, calling Smith a “clown.”

“Didn’t realize how evil Stephen A Smith actually was. Tried to bring Kobe’s death into this to make Lebron look bad. Aye man Lebron and Kobe’s family should put hands on you,” said one fan.

“lebron literally explained how covering athletes should never be abt anything personal so u respond by mentioning the passing of kobe bryant & lebrons involvement at his memorial while spreading misinformation,” another fan said.

Smith spoke about LeBron James for over 15 minutes on First Take Thursday. After this apology and the resulting reaction, we’ll see if he addresses the matter on Friday.