The recent feud between Stephen A. Smith and Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia appears to have reached a conclusion, following a contentious exchange that unfolded publicly. The disagreement originated after Smith drew a comparison between Ishbia and former Los Angeles Clippers owner Donald Sterling during an episode of his talk show. Sterling, infamous for his racially charged remarks and subsequent expulsion from the league, is a figure Ishbia understandably did not want to be associated with.

Ishbia voiced his displeasure with Smith's comments during the Suns' end-of-season availability, demanding an apology for the perceived slight. Smith responded with what some might consider a qualified apology, clarifying his initial statement. "Mat Ishbia is absolutely right," Smith conceded. "I do owe him an apology because I mentioned Donald Sterling. I thought I was making it clear I was talking about basketball. I certainly did not mean to compare him to a person who was thrown out of this league and has been widely recognized as a racist."

Smith emphasized that his criticism was directed at Ishbia's basketball-related decisions, not at his character or ethical standing. "I should not have mentioned Mat Ishbia’s name in the same breath as Donald Sterling in that regard. I did not mean to do that," Smith stated. He elaborated that he was referring to the "Donald Sterling that would be sitting courtside heckling his own damn players and never winning anything and never giving a damn," suggesting his critique was solely about basketball management.

While acknowledging the mistake of invoking Sterling's name, Smith also appeared to take a parting shot at Ishbia. "Unfortunately for you, sir, that’s the only thing I’m wrong about, and that’s the only apology you're getting from me," Smith remarked, indicating that he stood by his other criticisms of Ishbia's ownership. Ishbia, for his part, has stated that he accepts responsibility for the team's performance and is willing to bear the consequences of his decisions.

The exchange highlights the sensitivity surrounding comparisons to Donald Sterling, whose name has become synonymous with unacceptable behavior for an NBA owner. While Ishbia has faced scrutiny for his management of the Suns, there have been no allegations of the kind of toxic or discriminatory conduct that defined Sterling's tenure. With Smith's apology, however conditional, both parties can hopefully put this disagreement behind them and move forward.