Knicks' Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart Take Aim at Stephen A. Smith During Live Podcast

The excitement surrounding the New York Knicks continues following their historic NBA championship parade, which saw approximately two million fans celebrating the team's first title in 53 years. Just a day later, Knicks stars Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart, along with co-host Matt Hillman, hosted a live episode of their podcast, “The Roommates Show,” at Madison Square Garden's Infosys Theater to a spirited audience.

All ticket sales from the event, which was also broadcast on ESPN, went to the Garden of Dreams Foundation, a charity focused on helping underprivileged children. The atmosphere was electric as Brunson and Hart proudly displayed the Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy, prompting enthusiastic cheers and chants of “M-V-P!” for Brunson. The event also featured appearances by notable guests, including fellow Knicks players Karl-Anthony Towns and Miles “Deuce” McBride, along with Knicks icon Carmelo Anthony, and the wives of the podcast hosts.

However, not everyone was welcomed warmly. ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith faced a barrage of booing from the crowd during his appearance as a surprise guest. In a light-hearted moment, Hart quipped, “Are they saying ‘Deuce?’” while Smith attempted to downplay the negative reception by asserting, “Boos are cheers.” The audience's disdain for Smith likely stemmed from his previous remarks doubting the talent of the 2016 Villanova team that included current NBA players Brunson and Hart.

Smith's past criticisms didn't end there; he also expressed skepticism over the Knicks’ decision to sign Brunson in 2022, questioning whether he could be the answer for the team. During the podcast, Brunson and Hart confronted Smith directly about his earlier comments. Hart asked, “Can you sit here and admit you were wrong?” to which Smith responded, “I’m a grown-ass man. I was beyond wrong. I’m apologizing to this brother on national television; I’m apologizing to you; I’m apologizing to the entire Knicks organization.” He expressed his support for the team, saying, “If it means another championship, I would do it again.”