Stephen A. Smith just declared war on one of journalism’s most prominent Black organizations. The ESPN analyst responded to an award he received for allegedly disparaging Black women, and he is not holding back.

Stephen A. Smith battles NABJ over claims he ‘disparaged’ black women

The National Association of Black Journalists awarded ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith its Thumbs Down award at the Salute to Excellence gala in Atlanta on Saturday, as The Wrap reported.

The organization targeted Smith for his “recurring public pattern of disparaging commentary directed at prominent Black women across politics, sports and media.” NABJ added that such commentary “reinforces harmful narratives” and conflicts with its commitment to inclusive portrayals of Black communities.

The award also went to FCC chairman Brendan Carr, CBS News, The Washington Post and Circle City Broadcasting CEO DuJuan McCoy. NABJ designed the category to recognize conduct that weakens newsroom equity or damages the representation of Black people in journalism.

Smith fired back on social media Saturday evening, calling the award “the epitome of Christmas arriving early.” He wrote that the NABJ “started something” and issued a pointed warning, adding, “You had your turn, now mine is coming.”

The ESPN personality escalated his response during a Monday appearance on Fox News’ Hannity, dismissing the honor as “utterly ridiculous” (via The Wrap). He rejected the organization’s characterization by pointing to his upbringing, stating, “I was raised by five Black women. My mother, God rest her soul, and my four older sisters.” Smith also noted his two daughters and 10 nieces before labeling the award “a flat out lie.”

Smith conceded he had previously disagreed with public figures like Jasmine Crockett, Kamala Harris and Michelle Obama on policy matters. He challenged the framing, however, asking how “the word ‘disparaging’ come into play” over simple differences of opinion. Rather than retreating, Smith pledged to push harder, declaring, “Nobody is going to intimidate me from being who I am.” He also noted his upcoming induction into the Broadcasting and Cable Hall of Fame as proof of his career achievements.