Stephen A. Smith announces on 'First Take' he's tested positive for COVID-19 – USA TODAY
ESPN “First Take” commentator Stephen A. Smith said on Tuesday morning’s broadcast that he has tested positive for COVID-19 and was experiencing mild symptoms.
Before appearing on camera, Smith said he had a big announcement to share with the audience.
The 54-year-old Smith, who has become the face of ESPN, said he tested positive over the past weekend. He said he had tested negative numerous times on his trip to Los Angeles and upon returning to New York.
“I’m feeling fine. Mild symptoms,” Smith said. “Thank God I was vaccinated. Thank God I got the Pfizer vaccine, two shots a few months ago.”
He added that he has not gotten the booster shot yet.
There has been a surge of positive COVID-19 cases in the United States, due to the new omicron variant, leaving sports leagues to postpone games and in the NHL’s case, shut down through the Christmas holiday.
After making the announcement, the show went back to its regular format and Smith went back to what he is known for, opining about Kyrie Irving and the Brooklyn Nets.
