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ESPN, Stephen A. Smith negotiating historic deal nearing 6 years, $120 million: Sources

The article from The Athletic discusses ESPN's ongoing negotiations with Stephen A. Smith, one of their top on-air talents, as his contract is set to expire in July 2025. ESPN is keen on securing Smith's future with the network, recognizing his significant contribution to their programming, particularly on "First Take," where he has become a central figure. The negotiations are described as complex due to Smith's high market value, his desire for a substantial salary increase, and his interest in expanding his role beyond just sports commentary into broader media and entertainment. There's also mention of Smith's potential interest in exploring other opportunities, including his own production company, which adds another layer to the discussions. The article highlights the strategic importance of Smith to ESPN's brand and the delicate balance the network must strike to keep him satisfied while managing their budget constraints.

Read the Full The New York Times Article at:
[ https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5967493/2024/12/03/espn-stephen-a-smith-negotiations-contract/ ]