Trump and Stephen A. Smith Clash Over Knicks Game Attendance

President Donald Trump and ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith exchanged sharp remarks following Trump’s attendance at the New York Knicks’ NBA Finals game. Smith initially commented that Trump’s presence was unfavorable for NBA fans and the city.

Fox News Digital/OutKick asked Trump to respond to Smith’s commentary. Trump questioned Smith’s capabilities and intelligence, suggesting he lacked the necessary skills for public office.

Smith, the host of ESPN’s ‘First Take’, further criticized Trump on his show and podcast. He addressed issues like Trump’s ‘America First’ policies, the affordability crisis, and Middle East conflicts.

On Wednesday morning, Trump posted a fiery response on Truth Social, harshly criticizing Smith’s intelligence and potential political capabilities. He suggested that Smith would fare poorly in political debates.

Trump wrote, “Stephen A. Smith is an arrogant fool, a low IQ individual… he’s ‘dumb as a rock,’ and totally unqualified to ever think of running for high political office, or even low political office, for that matter!” Trump expressed confidence that Smith would be quickly dismissed from politics.

Smith had previously hinted at a possible presidential run. He clarified his criticism was solely about Trump’s attendance at the game, which he claimed caused inconvenience. Smith referenced the disruption to celebratory watch parties outside Madison Square Garden.

Smith remarked, “To go there, knowing the inconvenience it would cause and knowing that thousands of people who would be displaced, you should be able to appreciate because you were alive at the age of 26, the last time we had anything like this in New York City and you being a Queens, New York, native, you should know better.” He accused Trump of prioritizing himself.

The Knicks continue their series against the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday night, holding a 2-1 lead.