Stephen A. Smith: Best Dressed, Not Best Player

Smith Clarifies Arena Entrance: ‘Best Dressed, Not Best Player’

Stephen A. Smith, the boisterous voice of ESPN’s “First Take,” has clarified the perception of his entrances into arenas, asserting that his swagger is not that of a player, but rather that of the most impeccably dressed individual in the building. The sports media personality, known for his passionate takes and often animated delivery, addressed the murmurs and camera attention he received, stating definitively, “I’m not on their level.”

“People were saying he walking in like he one of the players,” Smith recounted, referencing past observations. “And I said no, totally false. I’m not on their level. I’m walking in like I’m the best dressed dude in the arena. That’s what I was walking in like.” He even went as far as to suggest that players themselves could learn a thing or two from his fashion sense, quipping, “I said the players needed to take notes.”

Fashion Criticism Extends to Today’s Stars

Smith’s sartorial commentary hasn’t waned over the years. He reiterated his stance, proclaiming, “And now here we are. Now here we are this year and I’m still telling the players they need to take notes.” The criticism, however, seems to extend beyond just the athletes to those on the sidelines as well, particularly coaches.

Smith expressed his delight that Miami Heat President Pat Riley brought up the topic of attire. “I’m so happy Pat Riley brought that up,” Smith exclaimed. Riley, a legendary figure in the NBA, whose statue stands outside the FTX Arena, has apparently voiced his own opinions on the matter, which Smith seems to strongly align with.

A Call for a Coaches’ Dress Code

The crux of Smith’s argument, amplified by Riley’s supposed sentiments, is a call for a more elevated standard of dress among NBA coaches. “He getting a STAT GOT A STATUE outside of the state arena and he letting everybody know there should be a dress code at least for the coaches,” Smith stated emphatically.

Smith didn’t hold back in his critique of current coaching fashion. “You damn right. All this money y’all get made dressing like y’all y’all shopping at at at Target or something,” he declared. The implication is clear: with the immense salaries paid to NBA coaches and players alike, their off-court and sideline appearances should reflect a higher caliber of style.

“They need to get it together. They need to upgrade their wardrobe,” Smith concluded, leaving no room for ambiguity. The message resonates: while the focus in the NBA is rightfully on the game itself, Stephen A. Smith believes that the presentation of its key figures, from players to coaches, could use a significant fashion upgrade.

Source: Stephen A. had to let everybody know 😂 (YouTube)