Image Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Stephen A. Smith Removed From NBA Countdown After Twenty Years As ESPN Unveils New 2025 Lineup

Image Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

ESPN has confirmed that Stephen A. Smith will not be part of NBA Countdown for the 2025–26 season, ending a run that spanned more than two decades. The announcement became clear when the network released a promotional graphic on X featuring Malika Andrews, Kendrick Perkins, Brian Windhorst, and Shams Charania, but notably excluding Smith.

Smith first appeared on the show’s precursor, NBA Shootaround, before continuing his role when the program was rebranded as NBA Countdown in 2012. His absence marks the first time in over twenty years that the television personality will not be part of the program.

The new NBA Countdown team will debut on Wednesday, November 19, at 6:30 p.m. EST on ESPN and the ESPN app. Joining the crew in a full-time role is former Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone, who adds championship experience to the panel. Andrews and Windhorst will anchor discussions, while Perkins provides analysis and Charania contributes as a reporter.

Stephen A. Smith Will No Longer Appear At Least For Now on ESPN's NBA Countdown; Here is the New Crew ===> https://t.co/ks3xhz6omp pic.twitter.com/aUcr6CKPaU
— Robert Littal BSO (@BSO) November 18, 2025

Despite being removed from NBA Countdown, Stephen A. Smith remains a central figure at ESPN. Earlier in 2025, he signed a five-year, $105 million contract extension with the network, alongside a separate three-year, $36 million deal with SiriusXM. At 58, Smith continues to host First Take weekdays from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. EST and regularly appears on Monday Night Countdown.

ESPN’s Strategy Moving Forward

In September, Stephen A. Smith publicly stated he was willing to take any role to help the company, showing his commitment to ESPN even as his responsibilities shift. His removal from NBA Countdown sparked strong reactions among NBA fans, many of whom expressed surprise at the decision.

The lineup change signals ESPN’s effort to refresh its NBA coverage while maintaining Smith’s presence elsewhere across the network. While the move may feel unusual given his long association with the show, reports suggest the demotion is temporary and expected to last only through the current season.