Monica McNutt is reigniting a spirited debate with Stephen A. Smith, following their heated exchange earlier this year regarding ESPN’s coverage of the WNBA and women’s sports. Despite the tension, McNutt asserts that their relationship remains intact, but her recent comments suggest there may be lingering issues beneath the surface.
In a recent profile by the Washington Post, McNutt reflected on a segment from “First Take” that sparked controversy. The discussion revolved around the WNBA’s treatment of top draft pick Caitlin Clark and the broader representation of women in sports. During this segment, McNutt challenged Smith for not advocating for increased coverage of women’s leagues until now.
Their on-air disagreement escalated when Smith claimed WNBA players were “jealous” of Clark, prompting McNutt to turn the tables. At breakfast, she questioned why jealousy is attributed solely to women in sports. “You mean to tell me that nobody in the NBA and NFL is jealous?” she asked, suggesting that envy is a universal theme across all sports.
In a pointed remark, McNutt highlighted Smith’s own competitive nature, particularly in light of his ongoing contract negotiations with ESPN. She speculated that his drive to secure a higher salary—potentially surpassing that of ESPN stars like Pat McAfee and Troy Aikman—could stem from a desire not to be outdone by them. “Sounds like jealousy to me,” she quipped, throwing shade at Smith’s narrative while keeping the conversation light.
Since their confrontation, McNutt has made only one appearance on “First Take,” leading some to wonder about the dynamics between them. Nevertheless, she emphasized in her interview that there are no lingering issues: “We don’t have any problems,” she stated. Their paths have diverged, yet the discourse around women’s sports continues to evolve.
While Smith has indeed increased his focus on the WNBA in recent months, the impact of their exchange remains uncertain. As the landscape of sports media changes, both McNutt and Smith are navigating the complexities of coverage and representation, and their exchanges will undoubtedly keep fans engaged. The conversation around women’s sports is far from over, and both commentators play pivotal roles in shaping that narrative.