By Peter Jones, PRSSA Sports Chair, Spring 2019
One of the most recognizable ESPN personalities, Stephen A. Smith, spoke at the fourth annual Al Jaffe Speaker Series, March 27 at Emerson’s Paramount Theatre. Smith discussed his career, journey to ESPN and mentality when it comes to forming opinions for his many shows. Smith was his usual, outspoken-self something he attributed to his upbringing in New York City and overcoming his dyslexia in grade school. Getting a basketball scholarship to Winston-Salem State University helped propel his career in sports media by providing Smith with what he called his biggest attribute, his work ethic.
Growing up with dyslexia, Smith learned to outwork people from a young age by overcoming his learning disability by “burying his head into his books.” Smith spoke about his time at Winston-Salem State University where he balanced classes, playing basketball and having an internship. He spoke about the importance of this time in his life and continuing to get better each day, as he continued to drive home the narrative of effort and hard-work.
“You got to put in the work, it’s going to be an uphill climb. You don’t get to have a degree and a good paying job without having to work for it,” said Smith.
Smith also preached on the emphasis of having tough skin in the dog-eat-dog world of sports. He spoke about how you do not apologize or retract a statement you make, unless it is morally wrong. Smith revealed he wakes up every morning with two agendas on his mind, “How do I make my bosses more money, and how do I get a share of it.”
Having one of the most recognizable names in sports media come and speak at Emerson was an incredible opportunity for all students across many majors. His intelligence was personified in the way he carried himself as well as his answers to Al Jaffe. Stephen A. Smith is advertised as one of the best sports pundits in the country and it is safe to say he lived up to that billing.