Stephen A Smith accuses First Take stars of ‘lying their behinds off’ and says ‘control emotions’ on popular ESPN show

ESPN’s Stephen A Smith warned his colleagues to keep their emotions under wraps in his opening First Take monologue.

The 55-year-old  star cohost told both First Take guest analysts to keep it peaceful and stop lying to kick off the popular show on Wednesday.

Stephen A was joined by former NBA player turned media personality JJ Redick and Chris “Mad Dog” Russo and joked that everyone needs to remain cordial during today’s discussion. 

“I’m going to keep these guys sain and getting along because we understand the importance of controlling our emotions.”

“We know I know how to do that. I don’t know about these guys,” Smith said, pointing at Redick and Russo.

Redick laughed and said he understood “at times,” Russo said he’s good with Redick.

Stephen A blasted them, saying, “They lying their behinds off.”

The segment transitions to Molly Qerim and the panel sitting at the desk, where she asks if the Phoneix Suns will be better next NBA season.

Stephen A felt it was no question they would be better because of the scoring ability they now have with the addition of Bradley Beal, but they still need work to be the best team in the Western Conference.

“I believe the Phoenix Suns are definitely going to be better. Does that mean they will be better than the Denver Nuggets? No, I’m not ready to say that.”

Russo believes the Suns will not win a championship for various reasons.

“Beal never plays, their supporting cast isn’t great, I don’t love the center, a lot of bad karma.”

“Phonix will be a good team but will not win a championship,” Russo said.

However, Redick took the conversation differently and argued whether Devin Booker and the Suns should be better. Instead of Durant, and felt the pressure should be on Booker to prove himself.