One of the many reasons ESPN has been one of the best sports networks and platforms for a long time is the on-air talent it has attracted throughout its history.
Perhaps the most talented personality on the network has been none other than host Stephen A. Smith.
According to Front Office Sports’ Michael McCarthy, Smith is close to a $100 million extension with ESPN.
If the deal is agreed to, Smith would become ESPN’s first-ever member to earn a $100 million contract.
Stephen A. Smith is making progress on a contract extension that could make him ESPN’s first-ever $100 million talent, sources tell FOS.
But another source warned a long-term contract extension is not done—and there are “still issues to be resolved.”@MMcCarthyREV has more ⬇️
— Front Office Sports (@FOS) December 4, 2024
The 57-year-old has become renowned for his role on ESPN’s First Take on weekday mornings.
Before he joined ESPN, he covered sports for notable newspapers such as the Philadelphia Inquirer and New York Daily News.
The former Winston-Salem point guard also played a role on ESPN’s NBA Countdown during the NBA season.
Smith is one of the most popular commentators in sports media and has deservedly earned a contract of this magnitude.
Despite never playing professional sports, Smith has developed a reputation for being one of the brightest minds and entertaining faces when the camera rolls.
If something big goes down on the court or the field, he is all over it.
It is safe to say that ESPN is in a great place with him as a member of the team.
Despite the contract not being fully agreed to, all signs point to Smith being one of ESPN’s main faces for a long time.
