ESPN has announced a revamped 'NBA Countdown' lineup for the 2025-26 season, excluding longtime contributor Stephen A. Smith. The new team, led by host Malika Andrews, includes analysts Brian Windhorst, Kendrick Perkins, and Michael Malone, with Shams Charania making regular appearances. Smith has clarified that the change aligns with his contract negotiations and other commitments.
ESPN revealed changes to its NBA coverage this week, introducing a 'new-look NBA Countdown team' that debuts on Wednesday, November 19, at 6:30 p.m. EST. The updated crew features third-year host Malika Andrews alongside senior writer Brian Windhorst, 2023 NBA champion coach Michael Malone of the Denver Nuggets, and former NBA champion Kendrick Perkins as analysts. NBA insider Shams Charania will continue regular appearances on the show, which handles pregame and halftime coverage for select NBA on ESPN games.
Stephen A. Smith, who has not appeared on 'NBA Countdown' during the preseason or regular season, is absent from the lineup after over six years on the program, starting in 2019. Reports initially suggested a surprise removal, but Smith addressed the matter on his 'Straight Shooter with Stephen A. Smith' video, calling it a 'non-story.' He explained that during contract negotiations from June of last year to March or April of this year, he opted out of regular participation to avoid late-night studio commitments. 'I didn't want to be stuck in the studio until after midnight,' Smith said, adding, 'No shade against ESPN. No shade against my colleagues.'
Smith praised the new team, noting, 'Malika Andrews is an exceptional host. Working with my man Big Perk is something I always wanna do. Brian Windhorst is absolutely fabulous. Shams Charania is great. Mike Malone... I think he's gonna do an outstanding job.' Despite the shift, Smith remains a key ESPN figure under a five-year, approximately $105-108 million extension signed in early 2025. He earns $21 million annually as host and executive producer of 'First Take,' hosts two SiriusXM radio shows including 'The Stephen A. Smith Show' on Mad Dog Radio, produces content for YouTube, and has a three-year, $36 million SiriusXM deal. He emphasized availability for ESPN needs, stating, 'I'm always available... If they need me, of course I'll show up.'
The change coincides with ESPN acquiring 'Inside the NBA' from TNT, featuring Charles Barkley, Shaquille O'Neal, Kenny Smith, and Ernie Johnson, which will enhance playoff and Finals coverage. Smith indicated he could appear on that show if required, underscoring his ongoing role in NBA media.