Stephen A. Smith Criticizes Zion Williamson Over 'Food Addiction'

Pelicans respond with video mocking Smith's own athletic abilities

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith harshly criticized New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson over his struggles with weight and food addiction, saying 'You got people that are alcoholics, you got people that are drug addicts and stuff like that. What was Zion's problem? Food! Food addict.' The Pelicans' social media team fired back with a video mocking Smith's own athletic abilities, leading to further back-and-forth between the two sides.

Why it matters

Williamson's weight and conditioning have been a constant source of scrutiny throughout his NBA career, with the talented young player facing criticism over his struggles to stay in shape. Smith's harsh comments reignited the debate around Williamson's personal issues, while the Pelicans' response highlighted the ongoing tension between the team and media personalities who have been critical of their star player.

The details

During a segment on ESPN's 'First Take', Smith did not hold back in his criticism of Williamson, saying the Pelicans forward had a 'food addiction' and even 'got busted hiding food under his bed.' Smith's comments went viral on social media, sparking a wave of reactions both supporting and condemning his harsh tone. In response, the Pelicans' official Twitter account posted a video mocking Smith's own athletic abilities, showing him struggling with various sports activities. This further escalated the back-and-forth, with Smith promising to address the situation in more detail on the next episode of 'First Take'.

  • On March 3, 2026, Stephen A. Smith made the critical comments about Zion Williamson on ESPN's 'First Take'.
  • Shortly after Smith's comments went viral, the Pelicans' social media team posted the mocking video in response.

The players

Stephen A. Smith

A prominent ESPN commentator known for his outspoken and often controversial opinions on sports topics.

Zion Williamson

A star forward for the New Orleans Pelicans who has faced constant scrutiny over his weight and conditioning issues throughout his NBA career.

New Orleans Pelicans

The NBA team that Zion Williamson plays for, which defended their star player by posting a mocking video in response to Stephen A. Smith's criticism.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“You got people that are alcoholics, you got people that are drug addicts and stuff like that. What was Zion's problem? Food! Food addict.”

— Stephen A. Smith, ESPN Commentator (First Take)

“Stick to solitaire Stephen”

— New Orleans Pelicans (Twitter)

“Pulling out stuff from a decade, two decades, three decades ago, ???? No problem. See y'all tomorrow on @FirstTake. Remember one thing: YOU ASKED FOR THiS!!!!”

— Stephen A. Smith, ESPN Commentator (Twitter)

What’s next

Stephen A. Smith is expected to address the situation further on the next episode of 'First Take', where he has promised to respond to the Pelicans' mocking video.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing tension between NBA players and media personalities who are often quick to criticize them, especially when it comes to personal issues like weight and conditioning. The back-and-forth between Smith and the Pelicans organization demonstrates the need for more nuanced and empathetic discussions around these sensitive topics.