"One Bit" Stephen A. Smith Brushes Off Trump's "Low IQ" Insult During Hannity Interview

Stephen A. Smith treated Donald Trump's latest social media attack more like sports talk than a personal insult. During a Fox News appearance, the ESPN personality made clear that being called "dumb as a rock" and a "low IQ individual" was not something that bothered him.

Days earlier, Trump unloaded on social media after hearing criticism tied to Game 3 of the NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden. Smith had argued that the former president's visit brought heavy security measures that disrupted the atmosphere during New York's Finals run.

Speaking on Fox News, Smith showed little interest in portraying himself as a victim. As reported by OutKick, he told Sean Hannity that people attack Trump every day and that he could handle criticism directed at him just as easily, adding that the comments were not bothering him "one bit."

Knicks fans spent much of Game 3 focused on basketball, but plenty of postgame talk centered on Trump showing up at Madison Square Garden. Smith later argued that the added security tied to the former president's presence changed the feel around the court.

Madison Square Garden served as the backdrop for the entire exchange. Trump attended Game 3 between New York and San Antonio and drew loud boos from portions of the crowd when his image flashed across the arena's video boards.

Game 3 handed Smith fresh ammunition. He later revived Trump's own "Sleepy Joe" label while revisiting the night on ESPN.

White House talk handed Trump another target. He mocked Smith's frequently discussed presidential prospects and argued that he lacked the qualifications for the job.

Rather than retreating, Smith leaned into the spotlight and challenged the criticism head on. A public clash involving one of sports television's most recognizable personalities and a former president transformed an NBA Finals side story into one of the week's most talked about media moments.