Stephen A. Smith issued a passionate warning about the increasing politicization of sports during a July 17 episode of SiriusXM's "The Stephen A. Smith Show," broadcast from the third annual Fanatics Fest in New York City.

Smith expressed concern over politics hijacking the conversation around WNBA star Caitlin Clark's treatment by the league and media. He urged sports fans not to allow "divisiveness" to take hold, emphasizing that sports have historically united Americans despite political differences.

"Bottom line is this: people from all over the world want to get here, because it's the land of opportunity. The politicians that sit up there and run their mouth, and try to invade the sports world and contribute to the division — don’t let them do it. Don't let them do it," Smith said.

He referenced comments by the NBA commissioner describing the situation as "political ping pong," noting that Clark's race and talent are being used by politicians to deepen divides. Smith also highlighted recent remarks by former President Donald Trump, who praised Clark as a "wonderful basketball player" while criticizing a hard foul committed against her.

Smith has used his platform to criticize both sides of the political spectrum, blaming Trump for the New York Knicks' Game 3 loss in the NBA Finals and criticizing the rise of democratic socialism within the Democratic Party.

Smith's remarks come amid heightened attention on Clark, who plays for the Indiana Fever and has drawn significant media focus, including during a May 30, 2026 game against the Portland Fire.

Sources