Stephen A. Smith accepts Memphis mayor’s invitation to visit city

June 20, 2025
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Stephen A. Smith is taking Memphis Mayor Paul Young on his invitation to visit the Bluff City.

ESPN’s high-profile, outspoken and occasionally controversial talking head, Smith caused a major stink on June 17, when his comments about Memphis set off a firestorm of reactions − including from Grizzlies superstar Ja Morant.

During a segment on the June 17 edition of “First Take,” those on the show were discussing the news of the Grizzlies’ trade of star Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic. During the segment, the conversation eventually veered toward Smith explaining why he believes the Grizzlies have traditionally had trouble landing more big-time players through free agency or trade.

“It’s a great sports town, great fans, great people,” Smith said on the show. “But there’s an element there where cats like Jimmy Butler and others don’t feel it’s the safest environment. I’m talking to the local authorities in Memphis. You’ve got to clean some of that stuff up because it’s dissuasive to NBA players. They have talked about it. I know. They’ve told me.”

Morant’s reaction was swift.

“Instead of focusing on the performances we seen from jdub/shai, tj/siakam, how this series is going. we say sumn negative about a city/team on a national level,” he wrote.

More passionate feedback ensued from fans, local media members and more. Several Memphis Tigers coaches (during a “Tigers on Tour” fan event) addressed the subject. Then came Young’s invitation.

“If Jimmy or anyone else is unsure, come see for yourself. And Stephen, we’ll welcome you here anytime. Just don’t bet against us. Memphis doesn’t stay down,” Young posted on social media.

Less than 48 hours later, Smith accepted the invitation.

“Deeply appreciate your words and the sentiments that came with them,” Smith posted. “Progress is what life is all about and when it comes to Memphis -where some dear friends of mine reside − I wish for nothing less. The people deserve nothing less.

“So with that said, I accept your invitation to come to your city, as your guest. Let’s make it happen. I’m looking forward to it.”

Good afternoon Mr. @MayorPaulYoung. Deeply appreciate your words and the sentiments that came with them. Progress is what life is all about and when it comes to Memphis -where some dear friends of mine reside — I wish for nothing less. The people deserve nothing less. So with… https://t.co/fGb0pf3wZZ
— Stephen A Smith (@stephenasmith) June 19, 2025

Young quickly quote-tweeted over Smith’s post: “Sounds like a plan my brother.”

Reach sports writer Jason Munz at jason.munz@commercialappeal.com, follow him @munzly on X, and sign up for the Memphis Basketball Insider text group.

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