Stephen A. Smith Calls Journalist Group's 'Thumbs Down' Award a 'Hit Job'

Sports television host and commentator Stephen A. Smith has publicly pushed back against a 'Thumbs Down' award given to him by the National Association of Black Journalists, describing the recognition as a 'hit job' rather than a legitimate assessment of his work.

NABJ, an organization representing Black journalists nationwide, hands out annual awards that include both praise and rebuke for figures in media. The 'Thumbs Down' distinction is typically reserved for individuals or outlets the group believes have failed in their coverage or professional conduct.

Smith, known for his outspoken commentary and prominent role in sports broadcasting, rejected the award's implication that his work merited such criticism. He characterized the decision as an unfair and targeted attack rather than an honest evaluation.

The term 'hit job' suggests Smith views the award as motivated by personal or professional animus rather than objective analysis of his journalism or broadcasting record. By using this language, Smith directly challenged NABJ's credibility in issuing the award.

This is not the first time a public figure has disputed recognition — positive or negative — from a media organization, but the exchange has drawn notable attention given Smith's prominent profile and NABJ's standing as a respected professional body representing Black journalists.

As of the report, there has been no indication that NABJ has issued a formal rebuttal to Smith's remarks. The disagreement raises broader questions about how journalism organizations evaluate the conduct and coverage choices of media figures, and how those being evaluated respond when they disagree with the outcome.

The episode also reflects ongoing tension in media circles over who holds the authority to judge journalistic integrity and professional conduct, and how such judgments are received by those on the receiving end of public criticism.