Stephen Jackson isn’t mincing words. The former NBA champion and outspoken commentator has publicly called out sports analyst Stephen A. Smith, accusing him of holding a double standard when it comes to coverage of athletes and public figures. Jackson, known for his candid takes and willingness to speak truth to power, claims that Smith applies a harsh, critical lens to Black athletes while softening his tone when discussing Serena Williams’ husband, Alexis Ohanian. The remarks have sparked intense debate across social media and sports media circles.
Jackson made the comments during a recent podcast appearance, where he addressed what he sees as a recurring pattern in Smith’s commentary. “Every time Stephen A. gets on TV, he goes hard on Black athletes,” Jackson said. “He calls out mistakes, behaviors, and controversies with zero hesitation. But when it comes to someone like Alexis Ohanian, suddenly it’s all respect, caution, and sugarcoating. That’s not fair, and it’s not consistent.”
According to Jackson, the issue isn’t just about criticizing athletes or public figures — it’s about holding everyone to the same standard. He explained that Smith’s critiques carry influence because he has a massive platform and millions of viewers who trust his opinion. “If you’ve got smoke for one group, you better keep that same energy for everyone,” Jackson added. “You can’t selectively go hard on some people and go soft on others just because it’s convenient or politically safer.”
The former NBA star highlighted several examples where Smith allegedly went hard on prominent Black athletes, analyzing their performance, personal choices, or off-court actions with razor-sharp intensity. Yet, when the conversation shifts to someone like Ohanian — a tech entrepreneur married to a global sports icon — Jackson argues that Smith immediately switches gears. “It’s almost like a different persona comes out. Suddenly, there’s no criticism, just respect,” he said.
Jackson’s comments have resonated with many fans and social media users, who applauded him for addressing perceived inconsistencies in sports media. On X (formerly Twitter), fans shared clips of Smith’s commentary juxtaposed against similar situations with Black athletes, calling for accountability and consistent standards. Some argued that media figures like Smith wield enormous influence and must ensure that their critiques are applied fairly, without favoritism or selective emphasis.
Of course, the remarks also ignited pushback. Some analysts and fans defended Smith, suggesting that differences in coverage may reflect context, public perception, or the nature of the figures involved. Others claimed that Jackson’s criticism was overly harsh or misinterpreted Smith’s intentions. Still, the conversation highlights a broader cultural debate around media accountability, fairness, and the lens through which high-profile figures are analyzed.
Jackson’s message is ultimately a call for consistency and integrity in commentary. “It’s simple,” he said. “If you’re going to hold someone accountable, do it across the board. Don’t pick and choose when to be tough or soft. That’s how credibility is built, and that’s how trust is earned.”
As the debate continues, it’s clear that Jackson’s remarks have forced a broader conversation about media double standards, race, and fairness in public discourse. Whether or not Stephen A. Smith responds directly, the discussion Jackson ignited is already influencing how fans and analysts alike evaluate commentary — reminding everyone that fairness matters as much off the court as it does on it.
