ESPN Cuts Stephen A. Smith During NBA Finals Game 7 Coverage

During ESPN's coverage of Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers, Stephen A. Smith faced criticism and an awkward broadcast moment when he was cut off mid-rant at halftime as the network went to a commercial break. Smith passionately debated with co-analyst Kendrick Perkins on-air, drawing mixed reactions from viewers who found the exchanges overly loud and unwatchable. The halftime show also drew scrutiny for not addressing the significant Achilles injury suffered by Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton, missing an opportunity to engage Bob Myers, former Warriors executive, in a discussion about a similar injury to Kevin Durant in 2019. Despite the drama on air, Oklahoma City won the game and their first championship, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander named Finals MVP. Smith, who recently signed a lucrative contract extension with ESPN, continues to be a polarizing figure in sports media, attracting both criticism and attention for his on-air presence and commentary. Fans and critics alike highlighted the production choices and broadcast timing as adding to the unusual and sometimes frustrating viewing experience during such a high-profile event.