Stephen A. Smith calls Trump an upgrade over Biden despite ongoing feud

Stephen A. Smith said President Donald Trump was an upgrade over former President Joe Biden in terms of alertness, despite their public back-and-forth over Trump's decision to attend Game 3 of the NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden.

Smith made the comment during a Sunday appearance in which he was asked about the exchange that began after he called Trump's presence at the game selfish and narcissistic. The Knicks lost that night to the San Antonio Spurs, 115-111, and Smith blamed the defeat on the distraction caused by the president's attendance.

Trump later told Fox News Digital that Smith lacked the aptitude and high IQ needed to run for president. On his Truth Social account, Trump called Smith an arrogant fool and said he would be annihilated in any debate.

Smith pushed back on the low-IQ charge and offered to debate Trump directly. He also said he would not accuse the president of falling asleep during the game, though he continued to describe Trump as napping. Smith added that Trump has a lot on his plate.

Smith said he still viewed Trump as an upgrade from Biden on alertness. He told Fox News Digital that he had no interest in running for office.

By Saturday, after the Knicks won the NBA title for the first time in 53 years, Smith said he was ready to set the feud aside. He told OutKick and Fox News Digital that the championship ended a 53-year drought and that he would not let politics interfere with the moment.