Terrell Owens Blasts Stephen A. Smith Over LeBron James' Memphis Remarks

Former NFL star calls ESPN host a 'clown' for his criticism of LeBron's comments.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 7:43pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a basketball game or match, with the players and court broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of color, conceptually representing the divisive discussion around LeBron James' remarks about Memphis.A cubist interpretation of the heated debate between athletes and media personalities over regional pride and the power of public commentary.Memphis Today

Retired NFL wide receiver Terrell Owens has strongly criticized ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith for his negative reaction to LeBron James' recent jokes about the city of Memphis, Tennessee. Owens accused Smith of being a 'clown' and defended James, saying the Lakers star was just making lighthearted comments.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing tensions between outspoken sports figures and media personalities, as well as the scrutiny that high-profile athletes face for their every public statement. It also speaks to the sensitivity around discussions of regional pride and stereotypes, especially in the sports world.

The details

During a recent press conference, LeBron James made some joking remarks about the city of Memphis, saying 'I've been to Memphis a few times, and it's not the nicest place in the world.' This prompted a strong rebuke from ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith, who called James' comments 'disrespectful.' Terrell Owens, a former NFL star, then took to social media to blast Smith, accusing him of being a 'clown' and defending James' right to make lighthearted jokes.

  • On April 6, 2026, LeBron James made the comments about Memphis during a press conference.
  • Later that day, Stephen A. Smith criticized James' remarks on ESPN.

The players

LeBron James

A 4-time NBA champion and 18-time All-Star, widely considered one of the greatest basketball players of all time.

Terrell Owens

A former NFL wide receiver who played for 6 different teams over his 15-year career, and is a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Stephen A. Smith

A prominent sports media personality who hosts a daily debate show on ESPN.

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What they’re saying

“I've been to Memphis a few times, and it's not the nicest place in the world.”

— LeBron James

“That was disrespectful. You don't ever want to disrespect a city like that, especially one that has such a rich history and culture.”

— Stephen A. Smith, ESPN Commentator

“Stephen A. Smith is a clown. LeBron can say whatever he wants about Memphis. It's not that serious.”

— Terrell Owens, Former NFL Player

What’s next

It remains to be seen if LeBron James will address the controversy further or if Stephen A. Smith will continue to criticize the Lakers star's comments about Memphis.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the fine line that high-profile athletes must walk when making any public comments, as their words can quickly become national news and spark debates about respect, regional pride, and the role of sports media personalities.