This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.andrewmarchand.com

In the 35-minute podcast, Andrew Marchand and Jon Meterparel discuss Stephen A. Smith’s big week.

Smith finalized his five-year deal for at least $100M with ESPN, had his profile raised even more by LeBron James and will continue to be a loud voice on politics.

Plus, other big sports media issues, including how MLB may split up its ESPN-opt out rights. Here’s what you need to know:

* To listen to the full 35-minute podcast subscribe at AndrewMarchand.com

* Why Stephen A. Smith’s deal makes sense for ESPN and him

* Why LeBron James looked small and Stephen A. looked big in verbal confrontation

* How MLB might structure its post ESPN-opt out rights

Marchand Sports Media is a listener-supported platform. To receive new pods and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber at AndrewMarchand.com. To listen to this entire 35-minute podcast, our archives and future pods, upgrade to paid. Thanks.

* Draymond Green’s terrible take on Karl-Anthony Towns

* Mike Breen receives praise

* March Madness is now Ian Eagle time

* ESPN+ can’t have UFC pay-per-view issues on such a big event

* Your questions on Tony Reali, Dan Orlovsky, Amazon and the Yankees, women’s tournament and a Richard Deitsch query

“Off The Record with Andrew Marchand presented by WSC Sports" is an event series that features the biggest dealmakers in sports, talking about the future of technology in an intimate setting.

ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro is the inaugural guest on March 18th starting at 4 p.m. The location is in midtown Manhattan. In this closed door conversation, Marchand will ask Pitaro to expand on his optimistic thoughts about AI and more.

The event is free and includes light appetizers and cocktails.

Register by clicking here. Space is limited so signing up does not guarantee a spot

* Related Pods: Why Stephen A. is on the verge of being a $100M man (Dec., 2024) … Bomani Jones and sports media’s gamble on its future … How Chris (Mad Dog) Russo became the greatest sports talk show host of all-time

* Sponsor: WSC Sports … Tell them Marchand sent you

* On-deck Thursday: Steve Raab, president of SNY, the Mets network, is The Main Event on the future of regional sports and baseball

* Subscribe at AndrewMarchand.com