Stephen A. Smith has secured a five-year, $100 million contract extension with ESPN, ensuring his continued role as the face of First Take while reducing his commitments to other network programming.
Under the new deal, Smith will take a step back from his frequent ESPN appearances, including relinquishing his role as a regular analyst on the network’s flagship NBA pregame show.
Previously earning $12 million annually, Smith’s new agreement significantly boosts his earnings.
Smith has long been a prominent figure on NBA Countdown, the pregame show leading into the Finals.
However, with ESPN reaching a licensing deal to incorporate TNT’s Inside the NBA, led by Charles Barkley, Smith expressed support for the decision.
Beyond ESPN, the reduced workload will allow Smith to expand his presence on other media platforms, particularly in political discussions, while increasing his earnings outside of ESPN.
He has even hinted at the possibility of pursuing a presidential run in the future.
Stephen A. Smith, ESPN Agree To Five-Year, $100M Deal; Will No Longer Be Fixture On 'Countdown' https://t.co/GxUqmilOIH
— RealGM (@RealGM) March 6, 2025
