Basketball Legend LeBron James on What Inspired His Latest Picture Book

LeBron James teams up with illustrator Niña Mata once again for his latest 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥ren’s book: I Am More Than. The NBA star shares the sense of responsibility he carries when writing 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥ren’s books, and why public libraries are irreplaceable.

LeBron James teams up with illustrator Niña Mata once again for his latest 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥ren’s book: I Am More Than. The NBA star shares the sense of responsibility he carries when writing 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥ren’s books, and why public libraries are irreplaceable.

School Library Journal: Was there someone in your life who inspired and nurtured your love for reading and made you want to become an author?
Lebron James: I would say my mom, my little league coaches, and just growing up in the community that I grew up in. When you have so many things going on in your life, you always feel like you want to have an opportunity to give back, and I think for me to be able to be an author and promote literacy, it means a lot. Looking back at my upbringing, so many kids had the opportunity to either live out, or not live out, their dreams. So, to be able to put it in book form, and illustrate exactly what I’m thinking, I think that’s what’s most important to me.

SLJ: How does this book further your mission? Why was writing it important to you? 
LJ: This book is right on point with what my mission is, and what our mission is at IPS (I PROMISE School) and in my community. It’s important for us to continue to have these books, because these kids look up to us. Not only in our hometown of Akron, OH, but all over the world. I am an inspiration. I understand that, and I have a huge responsibility on my shoulders and on my back. It’s important for me to continue to spread the positive word to these kids, so that they understand they can become anything that they want. There’s going to be days that they feel like they can’t make it; there’s going to be days where they feel like they [are] not seen. But I think it’s very important that we continue to drive inspiration into them, and make sure that we, as the adults and their leaders, believe in them. They can achieve anything.

SLJ: This is the second time you’re working with illustrator Niña Mata. What do you like about her artwork?
LJ: Niña Mata is amazing. She’s an unbelievable illustrator, and she does a great job of bringing my words and inspiration to life. You saw it in the first one, I Promise, and now you’re seeing it in I Am More Than. It shows these kids, believing, and aspiring, to be grand in life and in their everyday life. So, Niña, she’s a perfect sidekick to work with. She’s amazing.

SLJ: Why do you think everyone should love libraries?
LJ: Libraries are a vital resource because they are the cornerstone of reading. And we all know how important reading is. You can learn so much from books. They can take you places you’ve never been, put you in situations you never considered, help you learn lessons and find inspiration. Reading others’ stories is what gives us perspective and opens our minds to so much possibility. Books are an irreplaceable form of learning, and libraries are just as irreplaceable.

LeBron James is widely considered to be the best basketball player in the world, and one of the greatest players of all time. James has won four NBA championships, two Olympic gold medals, and four league MVP titles. James grew up in Akron, OH, where he continues to create generational change through his LeBron James Family Foundation, that focuses its efforts on helping youth achieve a better future through education. In 2018, his foundation opened the I PROMISE School, designed to help underprivileged students and their entire families succeed in school and beyond.

Niña Mata is an artist and New York Times bestselling illustrator. Her books include She’s Got This, I Absolutely, Positively Love My Spots, I Promise (by LeBron James), and the “Ty’s Travels” series, including the Geisel Honor Book Ty’s Travels: Zip, Zoom! Visit her at ninamata.com.

Lebron James Says He Wants to Play Two More Seasons and the Lakers Want to Bring Him Back Until He Retires

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the NBA, LeBron James, the legendary basketball icon, has expressed his desire to continue playing for up to two more seasons. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Lakers, keen to extend their partnership with James until his retirement, have officially expressed interest in bringing his son, Bronny James, into the fold as a draft pick. As the basketball world eagerly awaits the next chapter in the James family saga, let’s delve into the details of LeBron’s plans and the Lakers’ interest in Bronny.

 

 

 

LeBron’s Longevity: A Testament to Greatness

LeBron James’ desire to play for two more seasons comes as no surprise to fans and analysts who have witnessed his unparalleled longevity and durability on the basketball court. Despite nearing the twilight of his illustrious career, LeBron continues to defy age and expectations, showcasing his enduring passion and commitment to the game he loves.

 

Lakers’ Interest in Bronny: A Family Affair

The Los Angeles Lakers’ interest in drafting Bronny James represents a unique opportunity for the franchise to extend its partnership with LeBron James beyond his playing days. With LeBron already making his mark on Lakers history, the prospect of grooming his son for success in the purple and gold adds an intriguing new dimension to the team’s long-term plans.

 

 

 

For LeBron James, the desire to play two more seasons and potentially have his son join him on the Lakers represents more than just basketball. It’s about legacy building and creating a lasting impact on the sport and the franchise he holds dear. With his sights set on cementing his place in NBA history, LeBron sees the opportunity to write a new chapter in his storied career alongside his son.

 

With LeBron James at the helm for potentially two more seasons and the prospect of Bronny James joining the Lakers ranks, the future looks bright for the Los Angeles franchise. As one of the most storied teams in NBA history, the Lakers are well-positioned to capitalize on the James family’s legacy and continue their pursuit of championship glory for years to come.

In conclusion, LeBron James’ desire to play two more seasons and the Los Angeles Lakers’ interest in drafting Bronny James signal the dawn of a new era in Lakers basketball. With LeBron’s unparalleled talent and leadership guiding the way, and the potential addition of Bronny bringing fresh energy and excitement to the team, the Lakers are poised to remain a dominant force in the NBA for the foreseeable future.

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LeBron James Warns Pacers: Facing Celtics Is a Nightmare, Praising Their Versatile Lineup & Impact in NBA Playoffs

LeBron James and his Los Angeles Lakers may have been eliminated in the first round of the playoffs by the Denver Nuggets, but the four-time NBA champion remains deeply invested in the unfolding Eastern Conference Finals (ECF). With the series underway between the Boston Celtics and the Indiana Pacers, LeBron has offered some pointed observations and crucial warnings for any team standing in the Celtics’ path.

 

Before the ECF series opener, LeBron James appeared on the “Mind The Game” podcast, co-hosted by JJ Redick. During the episode, LeBron provided a thorough analysis of why the New York Knicks struggled against the Pacers and why the Celtics present a significantly tougher challenge.

 

 

LeBron pointed out a critical tactical issue that hampered the Knicks, stating, “From a half-court standpoint, Jalen Brunson has the ball 97% of the time.” This over-reliance on Brunson made the Knicks’ offense predictable and easier for the Pacers to defend against.

In contrast, LeBron emphasized the Celtics’ versatility, which makes them a formidable opponent. He noted, “Boston have four guys in their starting lineup who can handle the ball, so you can’t just hide, you can’t point switch because they have multiple guys who can get them into the offense and also make plays. If you fuc–d up a switch or a closeout game, you’re in trouble.” This multifaceted offensive approach poses significant challenges for any defense, as it eliminates the possibility of neutralizing their attack by focusing on a single player.

 

LeBron’s analysis was proven accurate in the first game of the series. The Celtics secured a 133-128 victory over the Pacers in a thrilling encounter at TD Garden, which required overtime to determine the winner.

 

The game was tightly contested throughout, and it was Jaylen Brown’s late three-pointer from the corner that forced the game into overtime. LeBron, closely following the game, took to social media to underscore the importance of strategic fouling in such critical moments.

Following the game, LeBron posted on social media, “And y’all still wanna know why I would foul up 3 EVERY SINGLE TIME??” This comment was a direct reference to the decision by Pascal Siakam to avoid fouling Brown with 4.7 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter. By not fouling, the Pacers allowed Brown the opportunity to make the game-tying shot, which ultimately led to their defeat in overtime.

 

 

LeBron’s advice serves as a strategic blueprint for the Pacers as they prepare for the second game of the series. His emphasis on the importance of fouling in critical moments to prevent game-tying shots highlights a fundamental aspect of defensive strategy in high-stakes games.

As the series continues, the Pacers must heed LeBron’s insights if they hope to overcome the Celtics’ formidable lineup. The Celtics have demonstrated their ability to perform under pressure, and the Pacers will need to make significant adjustments to counter Boston’s offensive versatility.

Adjustments for the Pacers

Defensive Strategy

: The Pacers need to implement a more aggressive defensive strategy that includes timely fouling to prevent game-tying or game-winning shots. This approach could disrupt the Celtics’ rhythm and reduce their scoring opportunities in critical moments.

Offensive Variability

: On offense, the Pacers should aim to diversify their playmaking to avoid predictability. This could involve spreading the ball more evenly among players and creating multiple scoring threats to keep the Celtics’ defense guessing.

Psychological Preparation

: Mental toughness will be key. The Pacers must maintain composure and execute their game plan effectively under pressure, learning from their experiences in Game 1.

LeBron James’ keen analysis of the Celtics’ strengths and his strategic advice offer invaluable insights for the Pacers as they navigate the Eastern Conference Finals. His emphasis on the Celtics’ versatile offense and the critical importance of strategic fouling in tight games underscores the complexities of playoff basketball. As Game 2 approaches, the Pacers must leverage these insights to enhance their game plan and counter the Celtics’ formidable challenge.

Bronny James has decided to stay in the NBA draft and pursue his dream to play pro ball on the highest level. & you will have to be INSANE to think that Bronny shouldn’t be drafted

Bronny James appears ready to join his father in the NBA.

Bronny, the eldest son of Lakers superstar LeBron James, is planning to stay in the 2024 NBA Draft after being medically cleared to play in the league, The Athletic reported Monday.

 

 

The 19-year-old received clearance from the NBA’s Fitness to Play Panel following his cardiac arrest due to a congenital heart defect last year, and is allowed to participate in the pre-draft combine this week, per ESPN.

 

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Bronny James played for USC this past season.AP
The USC guard is scheduled to participate in five-on-five scrimmages starting Tuesday, according to NBADraft.net

 

 

Bronny’s future has been a major storyline entering this year’s draft since his future could be tied to his father’s.

 

Bronny James: Playing with LeBron in NBA is not something I think about

James, 39, has said he hopes to play in the NBA with his son, and Bronny entering this year’s draft would potentially pave the way for that opportunity.

The team that drafts Bronny could, in theory, have the upper hand in landing James this summer. The four-time NBA MVP holds a $51.4 million team option with the Lakers for the upcoming season.

Los Angeles could draft Bronny in hopes it convinces James to stay around.

Bronny is projected as a second-round pick and mulltiple mock drafts have the Lakers using the 55th pick — a second-round selection — to draft the freshman, including The Ringer.

However, James’ agent, Rich Paul, recently downplayed how Bronny will affect his father’s plans.

 

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Bronny and LeBron in 2023.Getty Images
“The idea of them playing together is not a priority. It’s not foremost, at least any longer, in LeBron James’ mind,” ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski said.

 

“Rich Paul’s goal here in the pre-draft process for Bronny James is to see if there’s the right developmental organization, a place that can take a young player like Bronny James … If he does go in the draft, he very likely would spend next year in the G League.

“That’s the priority for them as a family. What’s best for Bronny James? If it ends up them together, that would be great, but I don’t get a sense it’s playing much of any role in LeBron James’ decision on next season.”

If that’s the case, Bronny’s case is lacking for a freshman prospect.

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Bronny averaged 4.8 points this past season.Jake Crandall / USA TODAY NETWORK
Bronny averaged just 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists while shooting 36.6 percent — 26.7 percent from 3 — for a bad USC team that did not qualify for the NCAA Tournament.

While acknowledging that Bronny even playing this season was a triumph in its own right, those statistics would not generate draft buzz for almost any other freshma

George Karl thinks LeBron James is no longer an NBA superstar

These days, people are living longer and aging more gracefully than in decades past. The trend is especially true in sports, where it is no longer unusual to see someone play 20 seasons as a pro athlete, especially in the NBA.

 

 

It’s one thing to be able to play that long, but it’s another to excel after so many years. LeBron James not only just finished his 21st NBA season, but he also was very productive, averaging 25.7 points, 8.3 assists and 7.3 rebounds a game while shooting 54% overall and a career-high 41% from 3-point range.

That production allowed him to set a record with 20 All-Star game selections and appearances, surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. There is also a good chance the Los Angeles Lakers linchpin will be named to one of the three All-NBA teams for an unbelievable 20th time.

 

Yet former NBA head coach George Karl found an urge to throw shade at the 39-year-old by saying he’s no longer a superstar.

 

There are less than 10 superstars in the League today.

They are Joker, Luka, SGA, GA, Tatum, Joel and maybe still Steph.

 

 

LeBron was and ANT will be soon.

That’s it.

 

— George Karl (@CoachKarl22) May 18, 2024

 

Karl has been on a Laker-hating roll lately. He said the team’s 2020 world championship doesn’t count, and he implied Anthony Davis didn’t deserve to be named to the league’s 75th anniversary team.

On the other hand, Karl also recently said that he thought James is one of the game’s two best players along with Nikola Jokić, who was recently named the regular season MVP for the third time in four years.

The Los Angeles Lakers Are Willing To Sign Lebron James To Any Terms He Wants, Dave McMenamin Says

In a significant development for basketball fans worldwide, the Los Angeles Lakers have expressed their intention to sign LeBron James to “any term that he wants,” according to ESPN reporter Dave McMenamin. The statement underscores the Lakers’ commitment to their superstar player and highlights the unparalleled influence that LeBron James wields within the organization. Let’s delve into the details of McMenamin’s report and what it means for the future of the Lakers.

 

 

The Lakers’ willingness to accommodate LeBron James on his terms is a clear testament to the immense impact he has had on the organization since joining in 2018. From leading the team to an NBA championship in 2020 to his continued excellence on the court, LeBron’s contributions both on and off the court have solidified his status as one of the greatest players in NBA history.

 

With the Lakers prepared to offer LeBron James any contract term he desires, the ball is now in the superstar’s court as he weighs his options for the future. Whether LeBron opts for a short-term deal to maintain flexibility or commits to a longer-term contract to finish his career in Los Angeles remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: his decision will have far-reaching implications for the Lakers and the NBA as a whole.

 

 

 

 

As the Lakers look to build upon their championship success and contend for more titles in the years to come, LeBron James remains at the center of their championship aspirations. With his unparalleled skill set, leadership, and basketball IQ, LeBron continues to serve as the driving force behind the Lakers’ quest for basketball glory, making his re-signing a top priority for the organization.

 

Regardless of the length of his next contract with the Lakers, LeBron James’ legacy in Los Angeles is already firmly entrenched in Lakers lore. From his memorable performances on the court to his philanthropic endeavors off the court, LeBron has endeared himself to fans and solidified his place among the pantheon of Lakers legends.

 

 

In conclusion, the Los Angeles Lakers’ intention to sign LeBron James to “any term that he wants” is a clear demonstration of their unwavering faith in their superstar player. As LeBron weighs his options for the future, Lakers fans can rest assured knowing that their team is fully committed to supporting him in his quest for basketball greatness.

LeBron, AD & Zach LaVine pulled up to watch Bronny’s pro day ahead of NBA draft

In a display of support and anticipation, LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Zach LaVine made a notable appearance at Bronny James’s pro day ahead of the upcoming NBA Draft. The event, filled with excitement and high expectations, drew significant attention as Bronny showcased his skills and readiness to join the professional ranks.

 

LeBron James, one of the most celebrated players in NBA history, took the front row to witness his son’s pivotal moment. LeBron’s presence was more than just supportive; it was a symbolic passing of the torch to the next generation. As a proud father, LeBron watched intently, offering guidance and encouragement to Bronny.

 

Joining LeBron was his Lakers teammate, Anthony Davis. Davis, a seasoned player with a wealth of experience, has often taken on a mentorship role within the team. His attendance at Bronny’s pro day highlights the strong bond within the Lakers and their collective support for the younger James’s potential NBA career.

Zach LaVine, known for his explosive playing style and scoring ability, also showed up to support Bronny. LaVine’s presence underscores the camaraderie and mutual respect among NBA players, regardless of team affiliations. His support adds a layer of validation to Bronny’s growing reputation in the basketball community.

 

Bronny James has been in the spotlight for most of his life, but his pro day marked a significant milestone in his journey towards the NBA. He demonstrated his skills, from shooting and ball-handling to defensive plays and athleticism. The scouts and audience were keenly observing his performance, assessing his readiness for the professional league.

 

Being the son of LeBron James comes with high expectations and immense pressure. However, Bronny has shown remarkable composure and determination. His performance at the pro day was a testament to his hard work, resilience, and the guidance he has received from his father and other NBA mentors.

Bronny’s pro day attracted numerous scouts and analysts, all eager to evaluate his potential. Their assessments will play a crucial role in his draft prospects. Early feedback suggests that Bronny’s performance has impressed many, solidifying his position as a strong candidate for the draft.

As the NBA Draft approaches, speculation about Bronny’s potential teams grows. Various franchises are eyeing him, considering how his skills and pedigree could fit into their roster. The draft will be a significant event, not just for Bronny, but for the future dynamics of the league.

 

The James family’s legacy in basketball is already well-established, with LeBron’s illustrious career setting a high bar. Bronny’s journey into the NBA represents the continuation of this legacy. His success would be a testament to the family’s dedication to the sport and their influence on future generations.

The support Bronny received from prominent players like LeBron, AD, and LaVine reflects the tight-knit nature of the basketball community. This solidarity is crucial for young players stepping into the professional arena, providing them with the confidence and inspiration needed to succeed.

 

Bronny James’s pro day was a significant event, marked by the support of some of the NBA’s biggest stars. As he prepares for the upcoming NBA Draft, the anticipation and excitement continue to build. With the guidance of his father and the backing of the basketball community, Bronny is poised to make a remarkable entry into the NBA, continuing the legacy of excellence and passion for the game.

Lakers’ LeBron James Shares Heartfelt Moment with Wanda Durant

LeBron James’ Lakers earned a hard-fought win over Kevin Durant’s Suns on Thursday, and the King proved it’s bigger than basketball after.

 

 

LeBron James and Kevin Durant treated the fans at Crypto.com Arena to a show on Thursday night, and although it was the Los Angeles Lakers who secured the victory, the King proved it was bigger than basketball afterwards.

 

 

James was seen sharing a heartfelt moment with Wanda Durant after the Lakers beat the Phoenix Suns 100-95 for their first win of the new season.

 

 

It’s the second moment of its kind for LeBron James early in the NBA campaign, and he’s clearly still enjoying the camaraderie around the league in his age-38 season.

 

Both James and Durant were excellent on Thursday night, but it was the former who had a better showing in the fourth quarter. James scored 10 of his 21 points while playing the entire fourth, including a tiebreaking layup with 1:11 to play. The Lakers were down 12 points entering the final frame but staged a scintillating rally to defeat the Suns and earn their first win.

 

“Someone you just compare yourself to,” Durant said about James afterwards. “If you could accomplish and achieve some of the stuff that he’s done, you’re doing pretty solid for yourself. It’s just a baseline for yourself as a player to see how great you can be.”

 

Durant was phenomenal himself in the contest, finishing with 39 points and 11 rebounds while carrying a team that was missing Devin Booker and Bradley Beal in Los Angeles on Thursday.

Durant and James haven’t faced each other on an NBA court since Christmas 2018 due to various ailments including injuries, load management and the league’s health and safety protocols, and it was fantastic for basketball fans to see them on the floor together.

Although it was the Lakers who came out on top, the entire league won watching two players who have been friends since age 17 continuing to dominate two decades later.

LeBron James Can Earn Upto $162,000,000 If He Opts Out Of The Los Angeles Lakers Contract

The NBA world is abuzz with speculation after agent Rich Paul hinted that LeBron James might soon become a free agent. This revelation has reignited discussions about James potentially joining a team that drafts his son, Bronny James.

Among the most talked-about destinations are the Phoenix Suns and the Philadelphia 76ers. However, sports analyst Colin Cowherd has quickly shut down these rumors, arguing that such a move would not enhance James’ legacy. 

“Winning another championship, for LeBron James, does nothing to his legacy and nothing to his net worth. He’s a marketing machine, he’s a billionaire. He got 2 in Miami, 1 in Cleveland, 1 in LA – another one in Phoenix is not going to change everything,” Cowherd remarked, dispelling the rumors.

Cowherd believes that while James might opt out of his current contract with the Los Angeles Lakers, it would be more of a procedural move rather than a sign of him leaving the team. He views this as a strategy to secure a longer tenure with the Lakers.

“You’re kidding yourself. You’re not getting LeBron,” Cowherd declared. “He’s not leaving. He’s posturing. It’s procedural, he’ll opt-out. He’s got the Olympics, that’ll add more to his legacy frankly. Make him more likable frankly than winning a title in Phoenix.”

 

Cowherd’s confidence stems from Bronny James’ desire to carve out his path in the NBA, a journey that LeBron has long supported. This focus on Bronny’s career further reduces the likelihood of LeBron making a significant move away from the Lakers.

LeBron James is currently halfway through a two-year, $99 million contract with the Lakers, which includes a $51.4 million option for the 2024-25 season. Opting out could allow him to secure the richest NBA contract, a potential three-year deal worth $162 million. This financial consideration adds another layer to his plans.

According to Rich Paul, discussions about James’ future are still in the early stages. “We’re gonna do what we do every year. We’re gonna evaluate the situation and we’re gonna make the best decision,” Paul commented on Saturday.

 

There is also a possibility that James might sign a smaller deal with the Lakers, which could still offer him the benefits of a new contract while ensuring his continued presence with the team.

LeBron James’ potential free agency is not just a contract negotiation; it’s a major event in the NBA world. Teams are well aware that acquiring LeBron would bring immense talent and global attention. However, as Cowherd suggests, the chances of James leaving the Lakers are slim.

 

Amid the speculation about LeBron, the future of Bronny James is equally captivating. Fans and analysts are keenly watching Bronny’s journey to the NBA, with many hoping to see him play alongside his father. LeBron has expressed his desire to share the court with his son, adding another layer of intrigue to his career decisions.

LeBron James remains one of the most influential figures in sports. His career decisions are closely followed, and whether he opts out of his current contract or stays with the Lakers under a new deal, his legacy is already secured. His future moves will continue to captivate the basketball world.

As the June 29 deadline approaches, fans and analysts will be watching closely to see what the next chapter holds for LeBron and Bronny James. The anticipation ensures that the upcoming NBA seasons will be filled with excitement and speculation.

Lakers Interviewed Bronny James at NBA Draft Combine, per Report

It seems safe to say the Los Angeles Lakers want to keep forward LeBron James, who remains one of the best players in the NBA entering his age-40 season.

Drafting—or at least engaging with—his son might be a start.

 

The Lakers conducted an interview with USC guard Bronny James during the NBA draft combine this week in Chicago, according to a Thursday evening report from Dan Woike of the Los Angeles Times.

“In terms of the draft, the Lakers seem like they’ll be the draft floor for Bronny James at pick 55, a player the team conducted an interview with in Chicago, according to sources not authorized to publicly discuss draft strategy,” Woike wrote.

James has had a solid combine after a rough first season with the Trojans, which he did not begin until December due to a cardiac event in July. He finished with averages of 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game.

 

The elder James holds a $51 million player option for 2025, which if declined can make him a free agent.