Overview
- Danhausen sent a video message on ESPN’s First Take on June 3 asking Stephen A. Smith for items such as a TV show, money, and courtside seats to keep his self-styled “uncurse” on the New York Knicks.
- Stephen A. Smith rejected the tactic on air and called Danhausen’s approach blackmail while acknowledging the exchange made for good television.
- Hours after the pregame exchange, the Knicks beat the San Antonio Spurs in Game 1 of the NBA Finals and Danhausen posted that Smith had “caved” and the uncursing would continue.
- Reporters treat the episode as performative publicity linking WWE, ESPN, celebrities, and fan conversation rather than as evidence that Danhausen’s remarks caused on-court outcomes.
- The bit builds on a larger narrative: the Knicks reached the Finals after an 11-game win streak and sweeps of the 76ers and Cavaliers, and the stunt could drive more attention and commercial value for the parties involved.