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Stephen A. Smith Calls Out LeBron James and Other NBA Stars Over Game-Day Fashion Choices
Stephen A. Smith and LeBron James (Photo by Imagn Images)

Stephen A. Smith Calls Out LeBron James and Other NBA Stars Over Game-Day Fashion Choices

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports
By Nitish Kumar Singh  |  Last updated Feb 23, 2026 3:37 PM ET

Whatever is going wrong in the entire world, that’s all because of LeBron James. We’re not saying that, Stephen A. Smith is.

Well, the ESPN analyst’s grumpy relationship with LeBron has been in the public eye for a very long time. But with each passing day, Smith is holding the Los Angeles Lakers superstar by the neck and wants to shoulder the blame, even if he’s not entirely responsible for the deeds.

During a recent appearance that quickly circulated on social media, Stephen A. took aim at the way some of the league’s highest-paid players present themselves on game day, including James. Smith questioned why their outfits do not always reflect their earning power.

“All that damn money LeBron and them making, you can’t dress better than that?” Smith said. “I’m so happy Pat Riley brought that up… All this money y’all make, dressing like y’all shopping at Target or something.”

This adds another chapter to Smith’s long-running public tension with James. Their relationship has only strained in recent years, most notably after a courtside exchange following Smith’s criticism of Bronny James’ NBA role. 

That confrontation led to extended commentary from both sides across television and podcast platforms.

Smith has previously lamented what he views as a decline in presentation standards around the league, contrasting today’s more relaxed, streetwear-driven culture with earlier eras that emphasized suits and formal attire. 

Stephen A. Smith Opens Up On LeBron James’ Retirement Timeline


Stephen A. Smith and LeBron James (Photo by Imagn Images)

As speculation intensifies around LeBron James’ future, Stephen A. Smith does not believe the four-time champion is preparing to walk away just yet.

James, now 41, is nearing the end of his current contract with the Los Angeles Lakers. With free agency approaching and questions swirling about whether this season could mark his final chapter, Smith offered a firm stance during a recent episode of ESPN’s First Take.

“The man is playing next year,” Smith said. “He ain’t retiring. The reason why he’s not retiring is because he wants to be celebrated. He wants to go on that tour throughout the league and be celebrated. He deserves to be celebrated. This is one of the top three players in the history of basketball.”

Given James’ résumé, which includes four championships and the NBA’s all-time scoring record, a retirement tour would likely attract significant attention.

This article first appeared on Total Pro Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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