Stephen A. Smith is not backing down in his dispute with President Donald Trump. Recently, Trump criticized Smith, labeling him a “low IQ individual” and “dumb as a rock.” Smith addressed these comments during a primetime appearance on Sean Hannity’s show on Fox News.

Smith, a prominent sports television personality, did not offer an apology. Instead, he stood by his remarks. Speaking with Hannity, Smith expressed no resentment toward the President’s response. “I take no offense with the president coming after me the way that he did,” Smith stated. “People go after him every day. I certainly went after him. He has every right to come back and clap back at me. I’m a big boy. I can take it. He ain’t phasing me one bit.”

The disagreement began after Smith criticized the extensive preparations for a presidential visit near Madison Square Garden, which disrupted local activities. Smith argued that Trump’s presence was self-serving. The visit led to the cancellation of outdoor watch parties for the New York Knicks game.

Smith, a lifelong Knicks fan, blamed the disruption on Trump’s visit for affecting the team’s performance. “When you are a true sports fan, you know every little thing could disrupt the momentum,” Smith argued. He emphasized the impact the cancellation had on fans and gatherings around New York City.

While some might question Smith’s logic in attributing the basketball team’s loss to a famous guest, the debate adds a layer of drama to an already tense playoff atmosphere.