Audio Podcast: Iverson and McNair
In this podcast I discuss Allen Iverson crying and the murder of Steve McNair.
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68 Responses to “Audio Podcast: Iverson and McNair”
In this podcast I discuss Allen Iverson crying and the murder of Steve McNair.
Subscribe on iTunes | Get it on iPhone, Blackberry & more
Sam smith one of the critics who enjoy dogging AI? ima a bulls fan and sam smith blogs on their sit, he tends too overly critize him. i love AI, i live in delaware, obviously close to philly, loved that mans heart, hated how he torched my bulls all them rough “baby bull” days. hope he finds his niche again, he deserves it
[...] will he end up!? Interesting Podcast from Stephen A Smith on the Allen Iverson situation; Audio Podcast: Iverson and McNair | The Official Site of Stephen A. Smith [...]
Keep Bringin it hard!
Pure Genius.
Hi Stephen,
Great Podcast!! I totally agree with everything you said about Allen Iverson (He has always been my favorite) and yes I remember the days when you wrote about AI!! I always appreciated everything that you reported about AI You have always said the truth. The people that have followed you over the years know how you feel about him and I am one of those people. Thanks for sharing the podcast with us all. It was a pleasure the last few days seeing/hearing you on tv as always you made some great points. keep up the great work.
As always much love, Mari
PS You know I wish you nothing but the best of luck in all you do.
like you said man i give my heart to the mcnair family. But im sorry my mom raised me and my two brothers by herself and i just cant condone what steve mcnair was doin. im not judging him but the only thing that hits the hardest is what values the 4 kids mother can bestow upon them when they find out that “daddy” died while he was cheating on mommy. now those same kids are gonna grow up and think its cool to have more than one woman. another thing that bothered me is that a 36 year old man had all those years when he was single to go out and sleep with as many women as he wanted, but when you have four kids and you are married some stuff just has to stop. im 21 years old and i know with all the women chasin im doin now, its gonna come a time when i settle down and give my heart and all to one woman. like i said before the thing that hurts me the most is that the children are gonna feel some type of way because your parents are the first people you wanna grow up to be like and thats not setting the best example. “whats done in the dark shall come to the light”. this is the best example of this statement. stephen a im going to keep listenin cause i look forward to the podcasts but i had to vent for a moment. thanks for the chance.
I think most of the issues that we all discuss come down to one thing, personal accountability. I feel Steve Mcnair was a class guy but like you said, if he was not running around with someone other than his wife, he would still be alive. I have always liked AI ever since I saw him bust his butt for team USA, but he is responsible for his comments. I think that most of the bad things that happen in life are consequences to bad decisions and poor judgement. That doesn’t mean you should take pleasure in being a hater and Steve Mcnair deserved to die. Most haters are just jealous miserable people and Steve Mcnair’s murder was a tragedy. I do think though, if you try your hardest to do what you know is right you’ll be fine 99% of the time. It’s hard for me to understand what these guys are going through though because I’m not a celebrity with tons of cash and all the hangers on. Keep up the good work Stephen A. Espn isn’t the same without you, but I still watch it because foxsports is just garbage. Nice work on MSNBC we need to hear all viewpoints of issues. Peace
I’ve been an AI fan since his Georgetown days and I hope he continues to play BUT like a lot of superstars who start to decline at some point he has to accept that for him to play more years (3-5 years) he’ll have to accept that he will be coming off the bench as a spark plug, and he’ll be making around the MLE (mid level exception)
Hey Stephen A I totally agree with your perspective on the whole McNair situation. I choose to remember the man he was on the football field and not the tragedy that occurred in his personal life.
P.S I sent you a email a couple days back hoping for a possible response.
Love the inspirational closing to your podcast.
Thanks
Love ya Steve ..Miss your view in the Inquirer …I must say you address every issue in the correct manner whether its a good or bad issue…I guess that’s the quality of a really intelligent man… Keep it up ..
“Those who have a lot ,seem to have so little”Amen
Great Take Stephen A., strange that you mentioned Iverson on your show “Quite Frankly” I always, always! felt he had more to say and I was wishing that there were parts II and III.
Ay Steve, Keep your head up, why? that’s where God is..
Very sad day. I just finished watching the Sportscenter coverage of Steve McNair’s memorial. It is just hard to watch and see so many people, family and friends attend something they had no idea they would be attending a week ago. Life is too short and too precious. Listen to God because he is talking to you. Some of us listen and some of us dont. I’m rambling but these are all thoughts going on in my head right now. God Bless You Steven A and keep doing what you are doing. We need more voices like you in the mainstream so folks can hear and understand your perspective. Why? Because your perspective is the perspective of so many and not too many folks are able to speak their mind and be honest on TV. Peace!
I don’t know why u are defending Iverson for when all the criticism that he has received is somewhat deserved. The only person Iverson has to blame is himself. You can’t have regret now that you are 34 years old and people do not want to hire you. Yes he probably is a good person but he is not a sound Basketball player.
On him as a player: You misunderstand why people go at him. It’s not about Iverson playing hard, its about him playing for himself. I think he has been one of the most overrated great players of our time. He doesn’t shoot a good percentage but he likes to shoot the ball and takes away shots from other teammates who shoots a higher percentage than him. Not to mention he doesnt wanna come off the bench where he might have been more effective.
on McNair: Its a shame. I’m sure a lot of athletes are re-thinking their situations right now. Bad way to die…RIP.
part 2
That’s why you see a lot players(elite ones) dont take paycuts and give their franchise breaks because when they have to get rid of you, they will do just that with no remorse. Iverson should have never accepted that trade to Detroit because Joe Dumars is a control freak. Why do you think that roster doesn’t have any megastar on it? because if it did, it would diminish Joe Dumars’power. Remember Kobe nixed that Detroit trade?
Stephen A I was googling your name one time and the term Stephen A smith racist comes up and that to me is disrespectful on so many accounts. I believe you do your job like anyone else and thats that. Do you feel that Iverson has gotten a bad wrap almost like TO in a way because of his pass? How do you feel about the haters that just dont like you?
Steven A. Smith I am one of your biggest fans the passion u show when u interview soemone or comment on a subject is why I think ur great why espn let u go I dont know Tim legler,Jamal mashburn,and John barry dont get it done for me I hope that one day I just hope that u will get an offer or u decide to go to TNT for inside the NBA just for one time seeying u Charles and Kenny get in to it would be fun!
Solid as always!
Not much to add here. I can’t, however, find the AI video on youtube. A link, anyone?
Great podcast; after all the events that have taken place last week i hope we finally realize that everyone is human regardless of status..god bless the kids of those who passed..one
I agree with you about the 20 y/o mistress. She thought she had moved up the pecking order and surpassed McNair’s wife. Well, that ain’t happening with me. I tell all my bitches that my wife comes first. I love my wife. However, there are times I need my bitches (if you know what I mean). They should put out, stay in the shadow and don’t ask for gifts like apartments, cars and jewelrys. So thank you Steven A. for sharing your lessons on how mistresses should behave.
This is a great podcast and best of luck. I pray for the McNair family and your family also. God only knows and no one should judge. We are all human and made mistakes.
You spoke the truth sir. I always loved your commentary on sports; I followed espn.com to listen you at times if I could not catch you on the tube but today I gained a new respect for your insight as you closed this particular pod cast. Keep telling the truth, persistent in whatever season, patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage people with good teaching.
Thanks sir and you have my support with my prayers!
Another good podcast. Since this is my second one, you’re 2 for 2. I think that the Steve McNair murder-suicide completely stunned me. You just never know what goes on in someones personal life. It shocked me and upset me to the core. God rest his soul. My sympathies to his family. McNair was a warrior and that’s how I will choose to remember him. I hadn’t heard about the Iverson meltdown, however, it isn’t that surprising to me. He wears his heart on his sleeve. Allen seems to be an emotional being and that’s cool. He’ been given a raw deal and there seems to be an overwhelming bias against him. A lot of these owners are taking the media’s words over those who actually know him and former coaches and teammates. It sickens me that he is almost being blackballed in the league. Allen Iverson can come and play for my team anytime. ClipperNation will welcome him with open arms. The left coast is the best coast!
Stephen really nice podcast, I feel this. Ah man the Mcnair ish is pretty sad. One way or the other this is so sad.
Iverson is warrior, however some of the things he said in the public could be twisted all over the place and has put him in a bad situation in regards to his professional basketball career.
Im feeling this podcast work, more than you on ESPN. I have to keep it real.
Anyways brother have a blessed day
Hotep!! (Peace)
Thanks SAS
Do you by chance have the link to the Allen Iverson clip?
Hey Stephen!
I am a Stephen A.aficionado! It is a sad day in Nashville. I think we should all take a look at what Bishop Walker said within his sermon, “He who is without sin, cast the first stone.” So therefore, “Drop Your Stone.” Very profound message. Steve was a humanitarian and his good will out way the mistakes he made. 2 pounds and 1 point to the sky! #9
S.A., I agree with your comments, but it doesn’t matter if there are women who go after married men, if McNair’s marriage was a business arrangement, if his wife threatened to take half or if they had issues in the bedroom. Adultery, is adultery…period! There can be no “side agreements” after marriage that make it o.k. The question is where your definition and view of marriage comes from: God or the world’s. THAT determines your viewpoint. So while I can understand, because he’s human, there’s never a good enough justification. Like you, I feel for his wife and children. That’s a horrible legacy to leave behind. And no, he didn’t deserve to die.
Iverson is responsible for himself. Anyone who says that practicing your craft isn’t valuable is a moron. You don’t see Kobe or Jordan with that mindset. It boggles my mind that you can defend that type of attitude. Just because someone plays hard or works hard while they are on the clock doesn’t make them a good teammate or employee. Stephen if you are runnin a business you would never accept it if you had a employee who came late all the time, left early, called in sick, and didn’t understand that collective is better than the individual. Iverson also never brought anything new to his game from year to year. I can make a case that Iverson peaked in 2001. People who actually care about there place in history would always continue to improve. It almost seems laughable that people used to argue me down with the Iverson is better than Kobe nonsense.
We all know you deserve to be on T.V. Stephen. But it’s podcasts like this that should remind us all of why that isn’t the case right now. YOU ARE NOT AFRAID TO TELL IT LIKE IT IS!!! And for that I and the rest of your fans greatly appreciate your work. Now I don’t know if you remember back in 2003 after the draft. Allen Iverson had a conference and he told Melo and LeBron to be careful around the media and the things they say and do, because the same faces that are there right now saying good things about you and hyping you up will be the same faces kicking you when your down if you make a mistake. That to me was the best thing anyone has done for young talent that I have seen. Why is it after you mess up the slate can never be clean? Iverson has done nothing noteworthy of negative attention up until he made that retirement comment since 2004. The man wants to win. I feel sorry for him because at this point in his career he will never please the masses. I hope great things for him in the future. He has to learn to play with the program presented for him. As for McNair….where do I begin? You know it’s always the saddest thing when a players true accomplishments aren’t praised until we loose them. I mean he was just suited up in Purple and Black not that long ago. Why is ESPN talking about his personal life? They and us knew him as a player…not personally. They should be talking about how he lead the titans to their only superbowl appearance and one yard short of their 1st superbowl title. But nooooo…they want to talk about his wife and kids and marital situations…that to me is classless Stephen IMO. I will remember him as a great versatile but underrated quarterback for that is all I have ever known him as.
Before I get out of here…I think Artest is a good fit for L.A. I bet all that soft talk will be non existent next season. Prepare to see refreshed motivated kobe on both sides of the ball. Especially since he wont have to guard every threat against teams that have 2 or more scoring threats like he had to do against Denver. And artest doesn’t get in too much foul trouble. Can’t wait to see how it plays out. The Lakers will still be the team to beat in the west and barring injury could be a 70 win team. Hell they almost did it this year had Bynum not have gotten hurt they could have pulled it off. The east is still a toss up for me. The celts did not need Sheed. Did they forget that they had Powe coming off the bench?
Wonderful podcast Stephen A. That’s exactly why I keep you in my prayers asking that God give you a platform beyond your imagination. You’re honest with the innate ability to separate your profession from the feelings of your heart. Much prayer is needed for those 4 children and his wife as well as Allen Iverson. As for your critics…fooey on them–no weapon formed against will ever prosper. Have a blessed day!
Norene A Fox
@anthony lewicki:
From SAS: I believe he will, Anthony. A.I. can do it.
@Jason Joseph:
From SAS: Thanks, my man.
@Bryon:
From SAS: Appreciate the love, boss. Had a great time on MSNBC this week. Hope to be doing a lot more in the near future.
@Trey:
From SAS: Personally, Trey, I don’t know about the coming off the bench part. Unless there’s a superstar two-guard already on the team, he’s still a starter to me. But he will need to accept that a different climate exists now. He’s not going to get paid what he was once paid, and everyone’s tolerance level isn’t what it once was where he’s concerned. This is Kobe, LeBron and D-Wade’s league now. Throw a Chris Paul, Deron Williams and Carmelo Anthony into the mix, too. It’s not the same for him anymore.
@Cassius:
From SAS: Thanks for the email and the comments, Cassius. And please accept my apology for not getting back to you before. I’m tremendously busy, getting busier by the day and don’t always get a chance to respond to every email, anyway. But I always read them. Thanks so much.
@Chyna:
From SAS: Thanks, Chyna. Appreciate the kind words.
Hey can you send the link to the AI speech from You Tube. I would like to get I was searching for it. Both of you are good brothers. It shocks me that you all aren’t Omega men the way you all conduct yourself and stand for something I will be making comments but keep doing what you do Stephen. A voice like yours only comes around every so often
Brother it’s good to hear your voice, as the Black voice in this day, to a great deal is silenced. I live in the Inland Empire out here in Southern California, and we don’t have a voice on the radio. You were, for most of us, our voice and opinion on sports on TV. Somehow, though, I see we have been silenced. Now, as far as A.I., I am a Laker fan but I always liked this guy because it seems he didn’t forget where he came from. Allen Iverson doesn’t act fake to please White people. Many of us grew up in environments where we have to be hard, it is almost a requirement. I grew up in Compton,Ca and I walked to school everyday with hard core crips. I am not a gang banger, yet, I am not a punk neither. People are quick to label someone a thug just because they talk a certain way or they dress a certain way; That is sterotyping. I wear dickies every day and Locs, listen to Snoop, Dre and Ice Cube, yet I am a college graduate and work in law enforcemnet. As you said, you know Allen Iverson, and he is a good guy, but in the national media…which real Blacks aren’t a part of, he is always portrayed as a villain or thug. Same with Joey Porter, if you keep it real, and talk like where you grew up, you are a thug or criminal. I love people who don’t fake or sugar coat. The natinal media loves to break brothers. They like to force a brother to conform or be smiley faced; And when you don’t they hate you and try to bring you to your knees or tears, just ask Barry Bonds. Hate to be long but as for Steve Mcnair, people are acting like he deserved to be murdered for cheating on his wife. Since when is adultery in this country punishable by death? People need to start looking at the mistakes they make in their own lives before passing judgement on others. Nobody’s perfect. Steve didn’t deserve to lose his life for cheating. That woman was a cooc; if she wanted to kill herself, she didn’t have to take Steve McNair with her. Too bad Steve chose a bad one.
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From SAS: Appreciate the email, Norm. And I certainly appreciate your message because I live by it. All of your points are valid, but let’s put somethings in perspective. No matter how real we want to be, it’s silly to assume any of us can get away with NOT conforming to some degree. It’s the way of the world. No way around it. I’m sure you, yourself, modify your game to some degree, depending on the environment you’re in. The difference between me, you and many of us is that the A.I.’s of the world (God Bless him, I love him) never felt the need to. You can’t get away with that. More importantly, when you’re in a position of influence, you should be more cognizant of it, simply because it’s necessary to realize it’s not about you anymore, but the lives you touch. A.I. made $20.8 million last year. He’s gonna be just fine. But what about all those he influences — braids, tattoos, maverick mentality, wardrope?? Are they going to get a job looking that way? Acting that way? Bucking the system with such blatancy??? You and I both know that answer is NO!!!
You’re right, being Black puts you behind the 8-Ball. That’s life. As frustrating as it can be sometimes, you and I both accept it. But that acceptance enabled us to conform and adjust, knowing the lives we effected along the way by doing so would not just stop at us. If A.I. and others have done anything wrong, it’s that they didn’t truly visualize the impact they COULD HAVE HAD. They were too busy thinking of the immediate impact THEY ALREADY HAD and stopped there. Now it’s past, somewhat. And we’re all left to lament what might have been.
That, perhaps, is the saddest thing of all. Nothing worse that realizing a significant opportunity may have passed you by. Especially when that opportunity appears to have a time limit based on the career (basketball) one pursues.
You and I may be more fortunate than most. We get to wake up tomorrow dreaming of the impact we’ll possibly have in the future. Others aren’t so lucky.
Take care, my brother.
Hello Stephen A. hope the world open too you and your honest, tell it like it is….. we need more men and women that come,s from a position of truth from the heart…. good luck! we will talk soon about Africa and the Need of our expertee in our areas….We are creating many opportunities for Americans on the Continent of Africa…. Be well we will speak My Private company…..
In regards to AI we might as well put it out in the open, the black athlete is public enemy #1, and history reveals this. From Jack Johnson, to Joe Louis, to Muhammed Ali, to Hank Aaron, to Barry Bonds. Of course these are just a name a few but each of these guys story have some many of the same elements that its impossible to ignore.
Hey Stephen. Forget the haters!! We got love for you!!! I really miss you on ESPN but MSNBC was a great look for you this week and I hope you get a spot on there. Now to the topics.
Allen Iverson will always have a place in my heart. The fact that he doesnt have a job in the NBA is sad. He plays hard and will play his heart out. I am so sick of sports writers like Jackie MacMullen always brining him down talking mess about him! It seems like all people want to do is bring this brother down. I hope he keeps his head up because any team will be happy to have him.
RIP to Steve McNair. His Personal situation was messed up but he’s a man! Men and women cheat and thats the bottom line. I only see him for the great football player he was. My heart goes out to his family especially his wife and kids! That chick was crazy and I believe she knew what she was going to do him in after he left her when she got pulled over by the cops. So sad he had to go out that way!
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From SAS: God Bless you, too, Nicole. Thank you for the email.
Take care brother and GOD Bless.
AMEN!!! AGREED ON EVERYTHING. I DONT LIKE THE WAY YOU SAY IT. BUT YOU KNOW YO SHIT S.A.S.
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From SAS: Why don’t you like the way I said it, Mr. Pruitt???
MY MAN, YOU NEED TO BE ON T.V. SOMEWHERE, REAL TALK.
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From SAS: Was on “Morning Meeting” on MSNBC everyday last week. Will probably be on a couple of times this week, as well.
Another powerful delivery. Great Job SAS!
I didn’t see the AI video, but I’ve always thought he is/was one of the hardest working players in the game. Some will argue that he plays for himself, but there’s no denying he leaves 110% on the court every night. He now has to grasp the fact that he will no longer be “the answer” on any team, and if coming off the bench makes him more effective, then so be it. It’s ironic that AI and Mcnair are being discussed in the same podcast as they both were journey-men who wouldn’t hesitate to put their bodies on the line in the name of victory.
On Mcnair: Many people are quick to stand in judgment of Mcnair. I will remember him as stellar football player. His actions off the field show just how flawed we can be in our judgement, and it’s sad he had to pay with his life. God bless his kids and his family. RIP Steve Mcnair
I’ll try not to ramble next time,
Marlon B-more
Stephen A.,
Just finished listening to your PODCast on Iverson and McNair. I’m a active duty Air Force living in Germany, 45 yr old white dude. I never downloaded PODCasts before, but because it’s you and the respect I have for your journalism style, truth, and your ability to say what the “average man” wants to say, I downloaded it and will continue to download your PODcasts. Everything you said was on target, heartfelt, and educational. I for one do not want to see you unemployed, you do great work. Unfortunately, I think people get intimidated by a intelligent brother who “tells it like it is”. All the best and continued to success. I would love to see you on a USO tour, consider it. Peace and Happy Summer to you and yours. J. Pratt
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From SAS: My brother, before I say anything else let me send my gratitude to you and all the soldiers who serve our country. THANK YOU FOR BEING WHO YOU ARE, for doing all you do. And let me say it would be a honor for me to be on a USO TOUR someday. It’s nothing to consider. If I’m requested, I’d make it a priority to be there. Sincerely hope it happens someday. Tell ALL THE SOLDIERS I SENT MY VERY BEST. Thank you for listening to my Podcast, as well. I’ll be blogging and Podcasting more in the future. Also, I’m filling in for WABC-Radio in New York, talking News and Politics, next Sunday from 7-to-9 p.m. I’ll be thinking about you guys when I’m on.
This AI situation I would say is very similar to barry bonds and sprewell. Both still wanted to play and had the ability but because the media had a strong dislike for them and they were old news, they got b$%^kballed from their leagues. The sad part is that AI’s biggest crime was that he was too urban and a lot of kids in the US wanted to be like him and thought it was possible, since he wasnt a giant. His comment was nothing more than that of a competitor who didnt want to go out like a dying dog. Why are others like favre, montana, clemens(before steroids) and even romanoski considered fierce competitors when they wanted to compete even when pass their prime or high prodution ability?
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From SAS: Damn good point, CJ. He did nothing different than those guys. Problem, though, is that he did to a brother (Joe Dumars), one of the rare black executives, and an accomplished one at that. The others didn’t do that.
All those in the limelight need to understand being in the public eye takes some of your freedom. Yes, it does. I have a very good friend who is an outstanding singer. He is better than 98% of those in the limelight. But, he will never pursue that endeavor because he wants to keep his privacy and freedom to go anywhere and not be recognized. He has a good business and makes a very good living. But, he could make multi-millions singing. But the trade off is not for him. Celebrity and all the good and bad that goes with it is not for everyone. Too many are destroyed by the excesses that fame brings.
Good podcast Stephen. Hey I joined your facebook as a fan. You need to use it to post a comment about when you have new podcast on your site. All of your fans dont know whats going on and when it arrive at your website here. Make it generate the traffic to this site and make the haters mad. I have ideas how you can capitalize and dominate your competition if you are interested let me know because unlike the biased coverage on espn and other channels you keep it real with your coverage and everybody I know like you and Charles Barkley because of how raw and real both of you keep it. Hit me up at atillmantech@yahoo.com Lets get your voice all the way out there.
YEA STEPHEN U RIGHT ABOUT A I ITS LIKE DEY TRYNA BLACKBALL HIM N U RIGHT HE ALWAYS PLAYED WITH HEART I HOPE HE GETS HIS LAST SHOT N AS FAR AS MCNAIR YOUR RIGHT ON ADULTRY IS WRONG BUT U SHOULD NOT JUDGE N LOSING HIS LIFE WAS NT DA RIGHT PRICE 2 PAY GOD BLESS MCNAIR!!!!!!!!!!!!!KEEP UP DA GOOD WORK STEVEY!!!
@John Pratt: Thanks for the reply. I just listened to your “emotionally charged” assessment of MJ’s father, once again SPOT ON! When I watched him on BET Music Awards, I was thinking the EXACT same thing, but you articulated better than I ever could. You’re the man …. keep doing what you’re doing and keep telling it like it is. J. Pratt
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From SAS: Thanks, John. Appreciate the love.
If you dont mind me changing the subject for a second. I know baseball is not really your sport, but is it me or did the pot call the kettle black? What did I miss in regards to Pinella calling out bradley for his tirade when he is infamous for doing the same thing, and the fact that the media didnt call him out on it? From what I understand another fierce competitor who was upset with his lackluster performance, but if he showed no emotion then he just doesnt care or is lazy.
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From SAS: Can’t blame you for feeling that way. The thing is, though, Bradley’s reputation has done nothing to help him ingratiate himself with MLB teams. Meanwhile, Pinella is a damn-good manager who’ll always have a job. Pinella, in fact, is probably more qualified to tell Bradley about himself than anyone else.
What happened to AI is unfortunate. However, it is hard to feel sorry for someone who earned more in a year than most of us will make in a lifetime. Yes he is human and capable of making mistakes like we all are. But his most glaring error was not appreciating what he had and what he accomplished. Perhaps the time he has on his hands now will give him an opportunity to reflect on his past and determine how he will act differently if he gets a chance to play for another team.
Steve McNair – My deepest sympathies go out to the loved ones he left behind but his behavior was deplorable. Since his murder was announced just about all of the athletes and friends of his have commented on what a great guy he was. He was not! A great guy does not cheat on his wife or set such an awful example for his sons. Children learn a great deal by what they see their parents do. I certainly hope none of his sons follow in his footsteps in their personal lives.
As someone who has an inside track on what happens among pro athletes in and out of the sports arena, I am sure you have seen quite a lot of them up to no good with hungry, thirsty females. What I don’t understand is why these guys just don’t stay single. They would save themselves and the women and children they impact with their bad behavior a lot of hurt and pain. They would also avoid the drama associated with having to explain where they really are when the “go to the store”, hotel bills, and photos of them with young girls etc.
On another note, I cannot wait to see where you end up! I don’t always agree with you but I enjoy hearing your opinions.
First of all Stephen A thank you for another great piece. Before I comment on this piece your last piece on politics was great I enjoyed it and look forward to seeing more of it. As for as the Stimulus bill, they say it is going to take more time seeing the condition the republicans left the country. As far as I am concerned, the republicans are in no position to critisize, because it was under their watch this deficit grew and the economy took a nose dive.
As for Allen Iverson I said it last week and you called me crazy, but it am going to say it again I would love to see him play for the spurs. He is incredible, am I’m am not a person who is big on flash, but he reminds me of Manu(they are actually built on fire). A player who efforts are not a concern. As for you Mr. Smith I can wait to see you in the political conversations. Stay on your grind!
@Mr.Pruitt:
Cause you so arrogant with it, and I’m ah arrogant person. Arrogance liking arrogance don’t mix. lol. but when is your next time being on t.v.?
I think My All Time Fav Player I Have watch him since college.
I see how people treat him and I think its unfair he has been one of the best in the game for a very long time
he his mistakes but His Heart On The Court and his game should never be questioned
Stephen A Smith
I think its really unfair the way AI is being treated and Honestly because he’s my fav player I would like to see him retire and not give the people the downfall that they are hoping to see. However I think if he should have taken a page out the Ron Artest book who could have gotten way more money than what he settled for and went after a ring. Now People say he cant play for a contender which I think is bull he play for anyone but he first has to humble himself. I’m sure if Iverson would came out and I said I will take a reduce roll and less money contenders would have been fighting for him. I see AI Playing for a team like LA-Lakers people say how- if he humbles himself he can be a force off the bench giving Kobe the rest that he needs and if anyone can coach him at this point in his career its Phil Jackson
Picture this Kobe Lights a team up for the first 10mintues of the game sits down then u have AI Come off the bench with a green light not to mention in the 4th it will be hard to guard anyone when u have 1 player who rebound crazy(bynum) 1 who is a lockdown defender and can hit the open shot(artest) 1 who can create for himself and his team mates on the low block (gasol) and 2 fearless scorers who can get to basket at will(kobe & ai) how do u stop that. Or if he went to cleveland and came off the bench in that system where Iverson could play off the ball which he did very well in Philly anyway and just score which is what Lebron needs besides or behind him Mo williams is ok but he dosent bring it every night shaq u wanna keep fresh for the playoffs and nobody else has a true scorers mind besides lebron why not bring in an Allen Iverson can do just that any gving night that extra 16 to 25 points off the bench can win a game for u.I think the whole Piston deal went down hill because lets be real the non of the pistons players didnt wanna play with Iverson at all he knew that they where not happy that billups was traded and non of them welcomed him with open arms from the door. They reacted like kids instead of helping iverson learn the system they worked agasint him Ive lost all respect for Rip and that team because they could have won but there actions cleary showed that after billups left they give up.
Now for him to go to a team like the grizzlies or even the clippers i think its a waste of his talent and his time even worst than when MJ played for the wizards because even MJ had something to offer that team Iverson has nothing left to prove besides winning a ring thats it. Miami seems like a good fit for him but thats even a long shot because the only way that could work is if J.O’neal some how remembers his pacers days and plays that way other than that its a waste of time also.
But this thing has gone way to far with him theres nothing wrong with leaving Patrick Ewing, charles Barkley Karl Malone John Stockton, Gary Payton, and countless others never got a ring but atlease they tried at the end to go to one of theses low class teams is truly pointless for him. He has done to much to go out like that.
@CG:
CG, come on now man. The truth is that A.I. has always been a good player but I don’t believe there is a good place for him. Lakers and Cleveland–No cap room to pay A.I. what he want and A.I. has to be either the one to have the basketball or the one to score and if he did go to either team he wouldn’t fit. And if Memphis signed him, It wouldn’t fit, he’s looking to play and Memphis want to sell tickets and there is no way he is starting over or getting more minutes than Conley or My mans Mayo. And i think he would destroy Miami’s chances of keepin’ D-Wade. He might as well let the starting thing go because he can’t even go to the worst team and start now. So, I would hope to see him in L.A. {IN A CLIPPERS UNI} havin’ Baron, Gordon, Griffin and Kaman are bound to win ball games this year and for the Staple Center, they get to see A.I. vs. Kobe 4 times in 1 years.
P.s.
And also, Detroit being my HOMETOWN TEAM, I agree with you that they did not accept A.I. at all. But hey I like this gordon and charlie thing. lol.
AI to clippers is a bad move. What are they going to do with livingston? Plus him and baron davis dont mix well and especially with scoring post big men. This is why I need to hit the lottery and buy the clippers and get things in order. And if you plan to make a big trade, you dont sign AI to 1 yr. He needs to slow down and rethink this.
@CJ (Jersey): AI to the Clippers is the best idea and the best place for him. Livingston doesn’t even play for the Clippers anymore, try the Thunder dude! Allen will redeem his career on a team that has wanted him for the past 4 seasons. The time is right and ClipperNation wants him now! It will happen. Clippers in the playoffs this season. Guaranteed!
@CJ (Jersey):
CJ, Livingston is in Oklahoma City. So, you have ah 3 man rotation.
Allen Iverson is an example of person who carries an entire culture on his shoulder’s. Allen was a symbol of the hoops & hip-hop culture and many people within the establishment couldn’t deal with it. AI never had a dominating center during his prime. He came to Denver after 10+ years with 76ers and the Nuggets got swept by the Lakers in ‘08 and lost to the Spurs in 5-games in ‘07. The Nuggets did win 50-games for the 1st time in 20-years with the combo of AI and Melo. Will AI ever get a chance to hold an NBA Trophy in late June? More than likely he won’t, but AI will be an icon symbol to the basketball & hip-hop culture fusion (The “Dunkadelic-Era” In America) and will forever be “The Answer” to Who’s the #1 All-Time Most Influential Player to the era. Good luck Bubba-Chuck!!!
Keep comin’ with the realness, Stephen A.
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From SAS: ALWAYS!!!!!!!
I give you credit, at least you are consistent. Instead of the big picture you went for the error on my part. The reason I find it to be a bad trade is because yes like you said 3 man rotation with AI, DAVIS, and Gordon. Its hard for me to vision AI and Davis together and being efficient. They both dominate the ball and with randolph being a black hole and now having griffin, I just see this as a really bad mix. They would have to play a Mike D type of game where you are averaging 110 or more per game. Plus you have ricky davis jacking up shots. Please quote me on what I just wrote come feb or march.
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From SAS: Count on it.
Thank you for speaking the truth about McNair. You’re speaking the TRUTH!! I agree with all you said about McNair.
stephen a what is the hold up on lamar odom and reflect if you will on the ignorance of trevor ariza’s agent
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From SAS: Buss is the holdup because he’s pissed with Lamar right now. Kobe is also a holdup, somewhat, because he’s totally indifferent to the situation right now. I don’t have the time nor energy to explain the ignorance of any agent you can think of, but I do know if Ariza wasn’t going to end up in LA, he should’ve gone to Cleveland. Houston really, really, doesn’t make any sense….especially with Yao Ming hurt……unless Ariza really thinks he’s better than he really is and that he has some kind of offensive game no one else knows about. I sincerely hope that isn’t the case. if it is, that’s pretty sad.
Stephen,
Great podcast, however I feel so sad for McNair’s family as well. This should be a lesson to all men and women who are cheating. Be sure your sins will find you out. Time is short, folks we don’t have much time left and the time we have left we should be living it according to the will of the Lord, because the enemy is out to steal, kill and destroy your very life; Jesus came to give life that more abundantly.
I also agree with you on the Ariza move, that was not smart, I’m not saying that Artest isnt good enough he is not the right fit for the Lakers, Ariza was.
Have a good one.
HEY STEVEN, I AM A BIG ALLEN IVERSON FAN AND IM PRAYING EVERYTHING WORKS OUT I THINK HE IS THE BEST, IM SORRY LOVE U A.I
I have always admired Allen Iverson. But he has always made me shake my head at some of the immature and irrational decisions he has made. But overall I do respect the fact that he has overcome many of lifes obstacles that would have unbearable for most, but he still made it. I hope that some team in the league picks him up and maybe this time he will become more appreciative of the priviledge of playing professional basketball for a living.
Dear Stephen A. Keep doing what you are doing. I do miss you on ESPN just telling it like it is. I know that you will again make it to the big time. Just remember Stephen A. YOU CAN PUT A CORK A THE BOTTOM OF A BARRELL, YOU KNOW WHAT HAPPENS TO THE CORK? IT RISES TO THE TOP! Take care Stephen A. and God Bless You.
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From SAS: Thanks, Jab. Appreciate the support. Seriously.
Good piece on criticism. You know darn good and well there are some legitimate crabs in the barrel. Excellent points on all. Thanks