Stephen A. Smith has responded to Marcellus Wiley, who previously labeled him a hypocrite for his controversial comments about Max Kellerman. On an episode of "The Stephen A. Smith Show," Smith praised Wiley, acknowledging his defense of Kellerman and expressing a desire for a friend like him. "Guess what Marcellus Wiley, I wish I had a friend like you," Smith said. "Actually, I'm lying because I already have friends like you. I got a bunch of friends who will come to my aid. ... I've always had love for Marcellus Wiley. There was never ever ever a single day when that brother was not kind to me."
Smith, careful not to mention Kellerman's name directly due to potential media spin, voiced disappointment about some of Wiley's statements but affirmed his affection for him. "That he was not respectful to me. That he was not decent to me. Just because I disagree with what he said, doesn't mean I'm going to clap back at him and offend him. I got mad love for all my collegeaus."
However, Smith did not extend similar sentiments to Jason Whitlock, whom he dislikes but clarified he harbors no ill will. Wiley's comments centered on defending Kellerman from Smith's critical remarks, particularly noting Smith's contrasting support for Shannon Sharpe in a similar situation.
