Stephen A. Smith has cemented himself as one of the most iconic sportscasters of our time. Whether you can’t stand his opinions or his delivery, he is someone who demands respect in the realm of sports journalism. Like most sports fans, Stephan A. has narrated my mornings to the point of a Pavlovian response: missing his takes is like missing my morning coffee. That all being said, have you ever wondered how Stephen A. Smith got here? He didn’t just spawn to the center desk out of nowhere. It was years of hard work and commitment.

Born on October 14, 1967, in New York City, Smith grew up in the Queens area. He attended the Fashion Institute of Technology and later transferred to Winston-Salem State University, where he earned a degree in journalism. Smith began his career as a writer for the Winston-Salem Journal and then moved to the Philadelphia Inquirer, where he covered the NBA and other sports. His writing gained attention for its incisive analysis. His writing was characterized by a strong voice and insightful analysis, which helped him stand out in a competitive field.

One notable anecdote from Stephen A. Smith's time at the Philadelphia Inquirer involves his coverage of Allen Iverson, who was the star player for the 76ers during that period. Smith was known for his candid and sometimes critical takes on Iverson's playing style and lifestyle choices. In a series of articles, he highlighted both Iverson's incredible talent and his struggles with consistency, work ethic, and off-court issues, such as his attendance in practice and commitment to the team. One particularly memorable moment came when Smith wrote an article after Iverson was criticized for missing a practice. Smith didn’t hold back, questioning Iverson’s dedication and challenging him to step up as a leader. This article sparked considerable debate among fans and within the sports community, reflecting Smith’s fearless approach to journalism. The tension between his critical analysis and Iverson’s immense popularity made for compelling reading, and it illustrated Smith’s willingness to tackle tough topics head-on, a trait that would define his later work on television.

Stephen A. Smith's also released a memoir, titled "Straight Shooter: A Memoir of Second Chances and First Takes," in 2021. The memoir chronicles Smith's life, from his upbringing in Queens, New York, to his rise in the sports journalism world. He shares personal stories about his family, his early aspirations, and the challenges he faced along the way. A significant theme in the book is resilience. Smith reflects on setbacks, including professional failures and personal losses, and how these experiences shaped his perspective and determination. Smith also addresses issues of race and identity in the sports world, discussing his experiences as a Black man in media and the importance of representation.

While Stephen A. Smith’s delivery can sometimes be polarizing, I wouldn’t love sports the way I do if he hadn’t narrated it for me along the way, and for that I am very grateful.