Stephen A. Smith spoke at the University of Florida on Wednesday night, and he was paid good chunk of money to offer his opinion.
Smith was reportedly paid $26,500 for 45 minutes of speaking, 15 minutes of questions and answers, and a “reception for student leaders,” according to his contract with the university.
After an audience question about journalists being censored by networks, Smith spoke at length about his recent weeklong suspension by ESPN after his on-air comments about Ray Rice’s domestic violence situation.
Smith said he chose his words poorly but did not think he deserved to be suspended after his comments.
“Under no circumstances should you put your hands on a woman,” he said at the event.
“I don’t believe I’m negative,” Smith said. “I believe I’m real.”
Stephen A. was brought to speak by ACCENT, a student government agency funded by student fees.
h/t Deadspin