Stephen A. Smith Responds To Rumors Of Big New ESPN Deal
ESPN seems to be engaged on preserving one among its most outstanding personalities within the fold.
In response to reviews from The Athletic’s Andrew Marchand, Stephen A. Smith is on the point of an enormous contract extension that might reshape his future with the community.
The potential deal is nothing in need of extraordinary. Sources counsel a six-year contract price $120 million, which might elevate Smith to grow to be ESPN’s highest-paid persona at $20 million yearly.
Initially, ESPN proposed an $18 million annual package deal, with discussions centering on a 5 – 6 12 months dedication.
When approached in regards to the negotiations, Smith remained characteristically tight-lipped.
“Right here’s my quote, ‘I used to be born AT NIGHT, not final night time. I don’t speak about my contract negotiations. By no means have. By no means will,” he instructed The Athletic, dismissing preliminary reviews as untimely.
When requested over textual content if a brand new cope with ESPN is shut, Stephen A. Smith responded, “False.”
Later, he added, “Right here’s my quote, ‘I used to be born AT NIGHT, not final night time. I don’t speak about my contract negotiations. By no means have. By no means will.”
🔗 https://t.co/uOjmahUodp pic.twitter.com/si37r1N3YT
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) December 4, 2024
At the moment, Smith earns $12 million yearly—$8 million in direct compensation and $4 million by way of his manufacturing firm.
His group at WME is concurrently exploring a “first look” cope with Disney, ESPN’s mother or father firm, involving Mr. SAS Productions.
Whereas ESPN would cowl the vast majority of the contract, Disney Leisure and doubtlessly ESPN BET are anticipated to contribute.
The community, nevertheless, has maintained silence when instantly questioned in regards to the potential settlement.
At 57, Smith continues to be a powerhouse in sports activities media, with a number of income streams together with profitable sports activities playing offers complementing his broadcasting profession.
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