President Trump Takes Clear Shot At Stephen A. Smith's Intelligence
President Donald Trump isn't exactly pleased with ESPN's Stephen A. Smith at the moment.
Smith complained on "First Take" about Trump attending Game 3 of the NBA Finals. He had an issue with the president taking the spotlight away from the New York Knicks. Additionally, he didn't love that fans, players and media members had to deal with Transportation Security Administration-style security screenings at Madison Square Garden because of Trump's presence.
"This president has no business showing up in New York City. I am dead serious. It is selfish, it is narcissistic, it is ridiculous that he is coming to this game," Smith said. "If it causes the New York Knicks to lose tonight, I'm blaming him. I'm blaming the president of the United States! I'm gonna stay on that. And damnit, I hope the GOP loses votes because of it if we lose tonight! I'm gonna be against them. All of them! I'm telling you right now. We better not lost tonight's game."
Well, the Knicks suffered a loss on Monday night for the first time since April 23. They struggled to slow down Victor Wembanyama, who had 32 points in a do-or-die situation.
After attending the Knicks-Spurs game, Trump was asked about Smith blaming him for New York's loss at home. Let's just say he wasn't too thrilled.
"I think he's a nice guy but you need a certain aptitude to run for president," Trump replied. "You need a high IQ, I'm not sure Stephen A. Smith has that."
Are they now rivals?
Back in May 2025, Trump spoke highly of Smith while on NewsNation. He even suggested the ESPN personality could run for president.
"Stephen A. is a good guy, he's a smart guy. I love watching him. He's got great entertainment skills, which is very important. People watch him. You know, a lot of these Democrats I watch, I say they have no chance," Trump said. "I've been pretty good at picking people and picking candidates, and I will tell you I'd love to see him run."
Fast forward to June 2026, and Trump has changed his stance on Smith running for office.
We'll see if Smith fires back at Trump before Game 4 of the NBA Finals arrives.
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This story was originally published June 9, 2026 at 8:36 AM.