A Deal in the Making
Stephen A. Smith is nearing the finalization of an agreement to bring HBCU basketball games to a platform under his media operation. The arrangement would place a strong emphasis on hiring Black journalists, producers and other media professionals for both on‑camera and behind‑the‑scenes roles, reflecting Smith’s longstanding commitment to supporting historically Black colleges and universities.
The prospective deal comes after the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) presented Smith with a ‘Thumbs Down Award’ for his public response to recent criticism. Smith has clarified that his disagreements were directed at specific board members rather than the organization as a whole, while acknowledging the broader concerns raised by the association.
A Broader Media Expansion
Beyond the HBCU basketball arrangement, Smith’s media company is advancing several green‑lit television projects and a new podcast network. These initiatives are part of a strategy to create direct value from HBCU athletic programs in a rapidly evolving media landscape, ensuring that the schools benefit from the growing appetite for live sports content.
The effort is also linked to Smith’s earlier work with HBCU Week, an organization that has helped raise more than $100 million in scholarships for students attending historically Black institutions. By leveraging his platform, Smith hopes to increase visibility for HBCU athletics and foster new opportunities for Black storytellers within the sports broadcasting arena.