A week after Shannon Sharpe’s controversial exit, ESPN insiders are buzzing about a Hall of Fame basketball star they say could go toe-to-toe with Stephen A. Smith, and win.
Just seven days ago, Shannon Sharpe’s tenure at ESPN officially came to an end. The former NFL star, off air since April amid sexual assault allegations, settled a lawsuit with his accuser, closing one chapter in a saga that left many staffers relieved, even as Stephen A. Smith reportedly pushed for his friend’s return. Many behind the scenes saw Sharpe’s departure as ‘the best news we could have hoped for.’
Now, attention has shifted to the show’s future and the possibility of an even bigger name stepping in.
Charles Barkley in the hot seat?
According to multiple production sources, one name is generating serious buzz: Charles Barkley. Sources say Jason Kelce, a popular Monday Night Football pundit, has already ruled himself out, leaving Barkley as the name on everyone’s lips.
The Hall of Famer and Inside the NBA star already has a strong TV presence, known for his sharp wit, unfiltered opinions, and willingness to debate anyone, including Smith.
“He could eat Stephen A. Smith alive with his analysis and with his personality, and many, many of us can’t wait to have someone put Stephen A. Smith on the ‘grill’ and not be afraid to debate hard with him,” the source said.
Barkley’s potential move may have a smoother path than expected. With TNT’s Inside the NBA set to be screened on ESPN under the NBA’s new 11-year, $76-billion broadcast deal with ABC and ESPN, his transition into First Take would be seamless.
Sharpe’s messy exit
Sharpe’s departure ended months of tension. Some staff feared he’d return despite the April allegations, which included claims of manipulation, physical assault, and sexual assault during a two-year relationship. While Sharpe initially faced a $50 million lawsuit, it’s unclear how much the settlement involved.
For many inside ESPN, the decision to cut ties removed what they viewed as a toxic presence. One staffer said Sharpe was “a womanizer and a weirdo with women,” while another added he “broke the trust we had in him” and “ruined his reputation.”
Sharpe addressed the settlement on his Nightcap podcast, apologizing to his brother Sterling ahead of Sterling’s Pro Football Hall of Fame induction. He expressed frustration over ESPN’s timing but said he was “at peace” with the decision.
What’s next for First Take?
If Barkley takes the seat opposite Smith, First Take could see a new era of fiery debates and unpredictable on-air chemistry. The outspoken analyst has never been one to back down and pairing him with Smith would all but guarantee must-watch television.
Whether ESPN will make the move remains to be seen. But after a turbulent summer, one thing is certain: the next First Take co-host will need the star power, and the backbone, to spar with Stephen A. Smith.