Stephen A. Smith makes major claim about LeBron James "ruining" his reputation and integrity

ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith and LA Lakers star LeBron James’ war of words has taken another turn. Smith, on Friday, appeared on the "Dan Le Batard Show" and made several claims about James.

Smith asserted that he has a lasting dislike for James. He added that he believes LeBron or people associated with him tried to harm his reputation and integrity.

“I don’t like LeBron… and it’ll probably stay that way forever," Smith said. "Things have gone on behind my back, trying to ruin my reputation and integrity.”

Legion Hoops

@LegionHoops

Stephen A. Smith: “I don’t like LeBron… and it’ll probably stay that way forever. Things have gone on behind my back, trying to ruin my reputation and integrity.” (via @LeBatardShow)

The beef between James and Smith started on Jan. 28. On his ESPN show "First Take," Smith questioned Bronny James’ readiness for the league and claimed that he was only in the league due to his father’s status.

James responded during a Lakers-Knicks game on March 6 by approaching Smith courtside and delivering a blunt message, which went viral. Smith described James’ approach as that of a parent, a father and not a basketball player, and said he wasn’t offended but wished it had been handled privately.

Ever since, both parties have had a series of back-and-forths. LeBron James or his side is yet to respond to the latest dig from Smith.

---

Stephen A. Smith calls out LeBron James over attitude toward Lakers’ rebuilding

Stephen A. Smith was a guest on the Aug. 15 episode of the "Gil's Arena" podcast. He called out LeBron James over the way he’s responded to the Lakers’ attempt to make Luka Doncic their franchise cornerstone.

"They got new blood. A cat that's going to be the face of the franchise for the next decade, where he's contemplating walking away from the game in the next year or two," Smith said. "Last time I checked, that's business. Secondly, it's pretty hard to be insulted when you're being paid $52 million for one year's work. So you need to get over that."

According to ESPN insider Shams Charania, LeBron is “supportive and understanding” of the pivot toward Doncic. However, he apparently found it uneasy with the Lakers’ tone and execution of the transition.

Multiple sources also reported that LeBron has felt sidelined. Reports claimed that he wasn’t consulted on the Luka Doncic-Anthony Davis trade.