Stephen Jackson is happy Stephen A.Smith is signing a 9 figure contract despite their conflict in the past: 'We disagree on a lot of things, but the respect still remains'

Congratulations amid differences

The announcement has not gone unnoticed. Former NBA player Stephen Jackson, who has recently had public disagreements with Smith, recently voiced his support for the deal. Despite their history, the former NBA star's comments struck a surprisingly conciliatory tone, highlighting respect over rivalry.

"We disagree on a lot of things, but the respect still remains, and I congratulate him on being able to get that money. Go get that money, bro," Jackson said. "I'm never being a hater; get that money. If anybody deserves it from the way he's self-made, you know Stephen A. deserves it; you ain't got to agree with everything he says to respect him and congratulate him on the success he's had all these years."

Given the history of their rift, the congratulations are truly heartfelt. The former NBA star, best known for his outspoken nature on and off the court, once called the analyst a "snitch" for reportedly contacting the league about Russell Westbrook's Game 3 ejection during the first-round 2024 playoff series between the Los Angeles Clippers and the Dallas Mavericks.

With just over six minutes remaining and the Clippers trailing by 16 points, Westbrook committed a hard foul on Luka Dončić, sending the Mavericks star spinning off balance. The altercation escalated quickly, with Westbrook and Mavericks forward P.J. Washington ejected following a heated exchange. Smith called for the league to suspend the Clippers star in his show.

Making the money

While the First Take host is no stranger to making headlines, this potential contract with ESPN marks a new chapter in his career. His current deal, which includes a base salary of $8 million and additional earnings from production agreements, is set to expire next summer. Reports suggest the analyst initially received an offer of $18 million annual ly over five years but has pushed for a more lucrative package.

If finalized, the $120 million agreement would give the veteran analyst unprecedented earnings, reflecting his status as one of the most influential voices in media, capable of driving ratings and sparking debates on a global scale.

From his early days as a columnist to becoming the face of ESPN's debate-driven programming, he has built a reputation as a self-made powerhouse.