ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith, known for his outspoken criticism of the New York Knicks, adopted a different perspective following the team’s recent success. After the Knicks secured their first NBA title in over fifty years, Smith participated in the ‘Roommates Show’ podcast with Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart. The live session took place at the Infosys Theater in Madison Square Garden, a day after the Knicks’ celebrated ticker-tape parade.

During the event, Smith encountered some jeers from the audience when introduced. The tension intensified when Hart mentioned that he remembered Smith’s previous criticism of the team. Among Hart’s points was Smith’s earlier assertion that Villanova’s 2016 national championship team lacked NBA-level talent. Hart, along with Brunson and Mikal Bridges, eventually emerged as key figures in the Knicks’ championship journey. Brunson joined the Knicks in 2022, a move Smith initially derided, claiming Brunson was not the solution the team needed.

Amid the reminiscence of past remarks, Hart referenced the championship trophy beside him and challenged Smith to acknowledge his earlier statements. Smith, instead of deflecting, offered an apology to Brunson, Hart, and the entire Knicks organization.

“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. Let me be very, very clear — I have never been happier to be wrong in my life. Let me be very, very clear — I came out of the womb a Knicks fan. I’m 58 years old. The last time the New York Knicks won a title before last Saturday, I was 4.”

However, Smith suggested that if his critiques contributed to ending the Knicks’ championship drought, he would repeat them.

“So, I apologize for being wrong,” Smith continued. “But let me be very clear: if it means another championship, I would do it again.”

The podcast episode also featured appearances by Karl-Anthony Towns, Miles McBride, and former Knicks star Carmelo Anthony.