Stephen A. Smith Apologizes to Knicks After Championship Win

Stephen A. Smith, a prominent figure and critic of the New York Knicks, took a surprising turn this week. Just a few days after the Knicks secured their first NBA championship in over five decades, he joined Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart for a live recording of the “Roommate Show” podcast. This event took place at the Infosys Theater in Madison Square Garden, right after a much-celebrated victory parade in the city.

Upon his entrance, Smith was met with mixed reactions, including boos from some in the audience. The situation heated up further when Hart mentioned taking Smith’s past criticisms of the Knicks to heart.

Interestingly, one of Hart’s points referred back to Smith’s remarks about Villanova’s 2016 national championship team, which Smith had deemed lacking in NBA-level talent. Fast forward, and Hart, Brunson, and Mikal Bridges—all from that roster—have made their mark in the NBA, helping lead the Knicks to a title. Smith had previously dismissed the Knicks’ signing of Brunson in 2022, insisting that it “wasn’t the answer.”

Hart, leaning into the moment, pointed to the championship trophy and prompted Smith to reflect: “Can you admit that you were wrong?”

Smith, rather uncharacteristically, accepted the challenge. He publicly apologized to Brunson, Hart, and the entire Knicks organization, stating, “I was totally wrong. I’ve never been so happy to be wrong in my life.” He expressed his long-standing support for the Knicks, saying, “I’ve been a Knicks fan since I came out of the womb.”

However, Smith also added a caveat to his apology. He indicated that he wouldn’t shy away from criticizing the Knicks again if it meant they could secure another championship. “I apologize for being wrong,” he remarked, “But let me be clear: If it means winning another championship, I will be champion again.”

The podcast episode featured other notable figures, including Karl-Anthony Towns, Miles McBride, and former Knicks star Carmelo Anthony.