The fans have been wondering why JJ Redick is not on First Take with Stephen A. Smith. In the recent past, there has been some animosity between the two TV legends. It all started when Redick, an NBA veteran put Stephen A. on blast for his lack of game knowledge and experience.

This led to a staunch response from Stephen A. who always takes a stand for what he believes in. While fans were left wondering why the NBA veteran is not being seen on the celebrated sports TV show, the 39-year-old recently cleared the air on the rumors.

JJ Redick explains his absence from First Take

Redick is one of the most well-known faces on sports TV today. In fact, the NBA veteran was voted fan favorite in a recent poll on best athlete turned sports analysts. For this position, he beat the likes of Shaquille O’Neal and Charles Barkley who are an absolute treat for the fans to watch. Because of his experience playing the sport, Redick is able to provide a nuanced insight into the things that happen in the games and around the league. So it is obvious that his absence will be noticed by his fans.

As the fans started bombarding the NBA veteran with questions regarding his exclusion from ESPN’s show, he came out with a response. Redick, on a recent episode of The Old Man & The Three, unveiled the reason behind his absence on the ESPN show. He said that there is a strategic masterclass at play which is why he is not doing the show right now. Redick said, “I have a certain amount of episodes or shows that I do every year, in my contract. They are just saving me for after the SuperBowl”.

Redick said that it a “football-heavy” content that is being put out right now and that he will be on First Take, next Friday from Vegas.

Read More: ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith Breaks Silence on Mark Jackson’s Sour Knicks Encounter

JJ Redick’s recent feud with Stephen A. Smith

Earlier this year, amidst serious deliberation, Stephen A. had a tough time understanding Redick’s point. To which the NBA veteran said, “Well, you didn’t play, Stephen A.”. After this comment, Redick went on to talk about “athletic mortality” among other things, but the damage was done for the seasoned journalist.

Stephen A. was fuming after Redick’s comments and started making a case for himself by stating that he has a degree and experience on television which is why he is here. The NBA veteran apologized to his colleague as the two buried the hatchet.

Watch This Story: Which Nation Has Won the Most FIBA World Cups?