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Stephen A. Smith went from a familiar NABJ presence to a target Saturday night in Atlanta. The outspoken talker received one of the NABJ’s 2026 “Thumbs Down” award over his commentary about prominent Black women.
The National Association of Black Journalists announced the honor during its annual convention, citing a sustained problem with Smith’s rhetoric.
“Stephen A. Smith. Sports analyst and political commentator. Smith has established a recurring public pattern of disparaging commentary directed at prominent Black women across politics, sports, and media.
“Such commentary reinforces harmful narratives, undermines the fair and respectful representation of Black women in public discourse, and stands in direct conflict with NABJ’s longstanding commitment to accurate, responsible, and inclusive portrayals of Black communities.”
The award carries added weight because Smith and NABJ have seemingly had a good relationship previously.
Smith has appeared at NABJ conventions multiple times with ESPN. In 2024, ESPN’s “First Take” broadcast from the organization’s convention in Chicago. The program returned for another live appearance at the 2025 gathering in Cleveland. Smith spoke positively about NABJ during the 2024 event, praising the sense of unity surrounding the organization.
Smith was not alone.
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, CBS News, Circle City Broadcasting and WISH-TV owner and CEO DuJuan McCoy and The Washington Post were also named as 2026 “Thumbs Down” recipients.
NABJ reserves the distinction for serious criticism rather than traditional professional recognition. According to the organization, “The Thumbs Down Award is presented to an individual or organization for especially insensitive, racist or stereotypical reporting, commentary, photography or cartooning about the Black community.
Many applauded NABJ for addressing Smith’s treatment of Black women. Dissenting voices questioned the organization’s decision to single him.
Smith has built a career around forceful opinions, fiery debates and an unmistakably confrontational television persona. This time, however, the debate is about the commentator himself.
For NABJ, the message delivered in Atlanta was unmistakable: professional prominence and longstanding relationships do not place media figures beyond scrutiny.
Smith has not responded to the NABJ.
