NBA fans react to Stephen A. Smith on 'Not Like Us' graphic singling out controversial black voices: "Stephen A plays ball"

Stephen A. Smith has become a polarizing figure in the world of sports and even outside his niche. The ESPN analyst hasn't hesitated to voice his opinion about matters not related to sports, putting himself in a complex position in the eyes of fans and haters.

Plenty of fans reacted when US Navy veteran and public speaker Kene Akers included Smith in a group of black people, who according to him, are not like the rest of blacks.

This Utah-based person shared a graphic on X, showing Stephen A. Smith alongside Associate Justice of the Supreme Court Clarence Thomas, US Senator Tim Scott, political commentator Candace Parker, and radio host 'Charlamagne tha God,' using Kendrick Lamar's lyrics to throw shade at them.

"Not like us!" Akers captioned the post.

Many users shared their reactions to this, with some agreeing and some disagreeing. Stephen A. Smith got some attention, with multiple fans defending him against the notion that he doesn't help black people.

"Stephen A plays ball.. behind the scenes he has given a lot of people opportunities. We need someone inside to hold the door open," one fan wrote.

"Dang! What did Stephen A do? I know he goes against the democrats at times, but dang, I’ve usually don’t see him as a habitual line stepper," another fan said.

Another fan recalled that Smith supported U.S. President Joe Biden.

"Stephen A endorsed Biden, he is not like the others," somebody wrote.

Others were more receptive to the message, supporting Akers' claim.

"Not even close… ✊🏾," somebody wrote.

Stephen A. Smith took a shot at Donald Trump while discussing Caitlin Clark

In June, Stephen A. Smith made his thoughts clear about former United States President Donald Trump, blaming him for the division in the country, which allegedly played a role in the race controversy surrounding WNBA sensation Caitlin Clark.

"You have somebody that's a presidential candidate. What is his claim to fame? Make America Great Again. What have people interpreted that to mean? Make America White Again... what has that led to? A divide," Smith said.

Just like that, he has spoken out against the former President on other occasions, making it clear he's trying to look out for black people. Earlier this year, he claimed he would 'eat Trump alive' if they ever debated.

It's unclear what made this person think that Smith wasn't like him or the rest of the black people.