TNT’s Inside the NBA recently hosted a memorable showdown between ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith and former NBA player Kenny “The Jet” Smith. The two faced off in a lighthearted free-throw shooting contest ahead of the NBA Cup semifinal action in Las Vegas. This fun segment added a sprinkle of entertainment to the pre-game festivities and showcased Stephen A. Smith’s surprising victory over Kenny Smith.
- Stephen A. Smith Triumphs: ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith surprised fans by defeating former NBA player Kenny “The Jet” Smith in a lighthearted free-throw contest on TNT’s Inside the NBA.
- Kenny Smith’s Handicap Backfires: Kenny, a two-time NBA champion, opted to shoot left-handed but managed only one successful attempt out of five, while Stephen A. sank three of five shots.
- Future Cross-Network Appearances: With Inside the NBA airing on ESPN starting in the 2025-26 season, fans might see more playful matchups featuring Stephen A. and Kenny.
- Signature Blend of Humor and Sports: This fun segment exemplifies Inside the NBA’s enduring appeal, combining expert analysis with engaging entertainment.
Stephen A. Smith, known primarily for his outspoken commentary and analysis on ESPN, stepped onto the court to challenge Kenny Smith, a seasoned 10-season NBA veteran and two-time champion with the Houston Rockets. Kenny, in a bid to level the playing field, opted to shoot left-handed during the contest. Despite this self-imposed handicap, the results didn’t swing in his favor.
Sources close to the show reported that Stephen A. Smith succeeded in making three out of his five free-throw attempts, while Kenny Smith only managed to hit his fifth and final shot after missing the first four. The outcome left Kenny quipping, “Now I’m warm,” showcasing his good-natured spirit despite the unexpected loss.
Stephen A. Smith’s victory, albeit in a playful contest, might hint at more appearances on Inside the NBA. With ESPN set to air the show starting from the 2025-26 season, fans could see more of Stephen A. in this new context, potentially facing off with Kenny Smith again. Given Kenny’s performance, he might need to practice those left-handed shots before their next encounter.
The segment wasn’t just about competition; it was a testament to Inside the NBA’s unique blend of sports analysis and humor. The show remains a favorite among sports fans for its engaging content and camaraderie among the hosts. This particular event added another layer of entertainment to the program, reinforcing why Inside the NBA continues to be a leading sports panel show.