Stephen A. Smith, one of ESPN’s most recognizable NBA analysts, finds himself under scrutiny once again after a series of high-profile slip-ups.
This time, the spotlight focuses on Smith’s recent mistakes involving the New York Knicks, sparking renewed debate about his credibility among fans.
The controversy started last month when Smith was caught playing solitaire during Game 4 of the NBA Finals, drawing criticism for his on-air behavior. Now, another misstep during a SportsCenter segment has reignited the backlash, especially among Knicks supporters who question his knowledge and passion for the team.
Smith’s Latest Mistake Sparks Outrage Among Knicks Fans
During a recent SportsCenter segment, Smith discussed the Knicks’ ongoing search for a head coach and attempted to name key players on the roster.
In the process, he mistakenly referred to guard Miles McBride as Michael Bride, a blunder that quickly went viral. This error was particularly jarring for Knicks fans, who expect deeper familiarity from someone often seen as the team’s unofficial spokesperson.
McBride, a 6’2” guard who joined the Knicks as a second-round pick in 2021, has played a growing role off the bench, averaging 7.8 points and 1.9 assists per game during the 2024-25 season, according to NBA.com.
Fans took to social media to express their frustration, with some calling Smith a “fake fan” for the mistake. The incident highlights the pressure analysts face to maintain credibility in a city where basketball passion runs deep.
Fake Knicks fan @stephenasmith naming key players of “his” beloved Knicks…. @CPTheFanchise @KnicksFanTv @JCMacriNBA pic.twitter.com/HfQOXPwmiL
— bmura (@_bmura) July 3, 2025
One fan did not mince words, labeling Smith the “worst fake fan of any team sport.” Others pointed out that this is not the first time Smith has stumbled when discussing the Knicks.
Last April, after a win against the Milwaukee Bucks, Smith credited Quentin Grimes for the team’s success, despite Grimes having been traded months earlier. Fans also noted Smith’s mispronunciation of center Isaiah Hartenstein’s name, further fueling skepticism about his authenticity.
hands down the worst fake fan of any team sport
— echoisthename (@echoisthename) July 3, 2025
Smith later clarified that he mistook Grimes for McBride, but offered no explanation for his pronunciation of Hartenstein.
These repeated mistakes have embarrassed Smith, who is known for his passionate takes and is often seen as the voice of Knicks fans. However, the latest incidents have led some supporters to question whether he truly represents their interests.
Michael McBride wow but not shocking,didn’t even know I Hart name last year.
— Sincere marks (@MarksSincere) July 3, 2025
These moments have become a sore spot for Smith, whose reputation as a Knicks analyst is under fire.
As one of the top NBA commentators in the country, Smith is expected to have a firm grasp of team details, especially for the franchise he often champions.
The ongoing scrutiny suggests that even minor errors can have a big impact on how fans perceive analysts, especially in a market as demanding as New York.
Michael McBrideb
I hate that they make this man the “voice” of the Knicks fans
— Nycky Towerz (@Cheo_jr21) July 3, 2025
Not all reactions were negative, though. Some fans chose to laugh off the mistake, comparing McBride to Knicks legend Patrick Ewing in a lighthearted way. This playful response underscores how even serious missteps can become fodder for jokes among the team’s passionate fan base.
Ah yes imo Michael McBride is the best player we have drafted in the history of our franchise forget Ewing forget any other Knicks draftee
Michael McBride is here— Bobby (@bobby3156) July 3, 2025
As the backlash continues, Smith’s position as a leading NBA analyst is being closely watched. With each mistake, he risks losing the trust of Knicks fans, who expect accuracy and passion from those who claim to represent them. In a league where details matter, Smith’s recent errors serve as a reminder that even the most prominent voices are not immune to criticism.
