Overview
- ESPN’s revamped NBA Countdown debuts Nov. 19 with Malika Andrews hosting and Brian Windhorst, Michael Malone, and Kendrick Perkins as analysts, with Shams Charania contributing regularly.
- Smith was not included in ESPN’s lineup announcement, prompting initial media and social media claims of a demotion or removal.
- On his SiriusXM show, Smith said he negotiated to leave regular Countdown duties during 2024–25 contract talks, citing workload and late-night studio hours.
- Smith said he remains under a large multiyear ESPN deal, continues to lead First Take, hosts radio shows on SiriusXM, and is available for occasional Countdown appearances.
- The Countdown change comes as ESPN reshapes NBA studio coverage, with TNT’s Inside the NBA talent integrated into marquee broadcasts throughout the season.