The animosity between Stephen A. Smith and Jason Whitlock has produced yet another chapter filled with tension and resentment. The situation escalated once again between the two media personalities, reigniting a feud that has simmered for years.
It is worth recalling that in recent days, Whitlock labeled Smith “fraudulent” and also accused him of lying about his past in college basketball. He specifically referenced a story Smith has told about earning a scholarship to Winston-Salem State University after making 17 consecutive three-point shots during a tryout.
Jason Whitlock’s criticism of Stephen A. Smith
Whitlock quickly doubled down on his remarks, taking the opportunity to deliver a pointed critique.
I said in the media space for 20 years, telling everybody I played for (Clarence) “Big House” Gaines and I got a full-ride scholarship after knocking down 17 straight 3-pointers in a scrimmage on a Sunday when they played a game on Saturday
.
Whitlock said on the “4th & 1” podcast and added.
Anybody familiar with HBCUs, anybody familiar with Winston-Salem State, and how little money Winston-Salem State has and had back then? They’re not giving out scholarships on the spot to anybody. It’s all a lie, and I’ve done the homework.
But the criticism did not stop there, as Whitlock also expressed doubts about the teammates Smith has mentioned in his story and took aim at his broader media career. He suggested that Smith’s rise was more a product of special backing than of earned achievements.
Stephen A. Smith’s response
This Monday, March 23, 2026, Stephen A. Smith issued his response. While he did not address every accusation raised by Whitlock, he made his stance clear with strong remarks.
By the way, before we start the show, I don’t know the kind of mood I’m in.”…”I just don’t know what will come out of my mouth this morning. … People been talking smack particularly about me, and I’m in kind of mind where I want to exhale and check some sorry bastards, and I will be doing that today.
Smith said on First Take.
The veteran commentator delivered a direct and forceful message aimed at Whitlock, who now operates primarily as a streamer. Although Smith stopped short of addressing every detail, his tone made it clear that he was prepared to defend his reputation.
This ongoing dispute appears far from over. Given the intensity of their exchanges and the public nature of their platforms, it is likely that both figures will continue to trade barbs in the coming days, extending a rivalry that has already become one of the most notable feuds in sports media.
Read the full article here
