‘I’d Be EMBARRASSED’ — Sports World Reacts As ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith Gets Called Out by National Association of Black Journalists

Stephen A. Smith has built a career around strong opinions on American sports and politics, often putting himself at the center of heated debates.

Now, those opinions have earned him an award, but certainly not one he would want on his resume. And soon after the news broke, the sports world had plenty to say.

The National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) officially presented the ESPN commentator with its 2026 “Thumbs Down” award during the Salute to Excellence Awards Gala.

The organization reserves the designation for people or media outlets whose coverage, reporting, or public commentary it considers insensitive, stereotypical, or out of step with the mission of Black media professionals.

“Stephen A. Smith, sports analyst and political commentator,” NABJ said during the event. “Smith has established a recurring public pattern of disparaging commentary directed at prominent Black women across politics, sports, and media.”

NABJ also explained that it believes Smith’s approach carries consequences beyond the individual discussions surrounding his remarks.

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“Such commentary reinforces harmful narratives, undermines the fair and respectful representation of Black women in public discourse, and stands in direct conflict with NABJ’s longstanding commitment to accurate, responsible, and inclusive portrayals of Black communities.”

Then, social media users quickly joined the conversation after the award became public.

“I’d be EMBARRASSED if the NABJ said this about me,” said Swipa, who covers Denver sports. “Totally embarrassed.”

“Homie gotta understand it’s not just that people don’t like you. They ALSO don’t respect you lol,” a user named ‘JR Levert’ added on X.

Meanwhile, another user on X responded with a GIF that said, “I love that.”

The disciplinary recognition creates an unusual turn in Smith’s relationship with the National Association of Black Journalists.

In previous years, Smith and ESPN’s “First Take” crew regularly appeared as featured guests, even taking the daily show live from the organization’s annual convention.

Smith also praised the gathering and its sense of community.

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“You come to a place like the National Association of Black Journalists conference, and you’re reminded of what togetherness is all about. How there’s strength in numbers and unity,” Smith said back in 2024.

Now, however, the same organization has publicly criticized him, marking a clear shift from those earlier appearances.

Still, some believe NABJ’s decision was justified.

“Couldn’t think of anyone more deserving,” a fan wrote.

Another simply asked, “Where’s the lie?”

Then,a third fan added, “Oh, he’s cooked, lmao.”

However, a fan feels Smith will use this in the future. “And he will use this to grift politic,” the fan wrote.

Those reactions showed that Smith’s critics had little sympathy for the ESPN personality.

Smith also shared a post after seeing the newsand wrote, “This is the epitome of Christmas arriving early. The @NABJ wants to call folks out, fine! You had your turn, now mine is coming. And make no mistake… I’m coming.

“Let’s see who REALLY deserves a Thumbs Down award when it comes to the Black Community, after I say my peace! Remember @NABJ, you asked for it. I’ve shut my mouth for years. Now y’all started something.”

Given his history of addressing criticism head-on, it will be interesting to see what he says next.

This article originally appeared on Pro Football Network.