Smith, Steele debate men's silence on trans athletes

Stephen A. Smith and former ESPN colleague Sage Steele clashed on her podcast over transgender athletes competing in women's sports. Steele questioned why Smith waited three years to speak out, but he countered that he addressed Lia Thomas's participation at the University of Pennsylvania from the first day on ESPN's "First Take." The pair agreed on the core issue before turning to why prominent male athletes remain quiet.

Steele pressed Smith on male athletes in the NFL and NBA, many with substantial financial security and daughters in sports, who avoid the topic despite risks like injuries from biological males competing against females. Smith replied that some people speak out only when personally affected, while others leverage public platforms regardless. He described politics as a "cesspool," calling the issue the latest flashpoint.

Steele noted reports showing nearly 80% of people oppose transgender athletes competing against biological females. She argued that unified support from female sportscasters early on could have shifted the debate. Smith responded that courageous voices willing to address such issues for the broader good remain rare among both men and women.

Smith reiterated his position last week on "Real Time with Bill Maher," stating biological men should not compete against biological girls in sports.