LeBron joining Kyrie and Luka? According to NBA insider, this is what is going to happen

Can a Doncic-James-Irving reunion happen at Mavs? Here’s the latest according to an NBA insider

The basketball community is buzzing with anticipation as LeBron James’ free agency decision draws near, despite the slim chances of him switching teams this summer. Recently, rumors have surfaced linking LeBron to the Dallas Mavericks, but NBA insider Brian Windhorst has dismissed these speculations.

“Yes, I would rule them out,” Windhorst declared. “Although LeBron holds a great deal of admiration for Luka, and once showed strong interest in teaming up with him (he even wanted Luka to endorse his own brand of shoes), Luka has forged his own path. He’s found a superstar partner, and the Mavericks are thriving as they are. They don’t need to make any changes. Let’s keep the momentum going.”

LeBron’s respect for Mavericks star Luka Doncic is well-documented. In 2018, James tried to recruit Doncic to his Nike brand, but Doncic chose to sign with the Jordan Brand instead. The Mavericks also boast Kyrie Irving, LeBron’s former teammate from their championship-winning days.

LeBron has been eager to reunite with Kyrie since 2022, advocating for the Lakers to acquire him in early 2023. However, it was the Mavericks who successfully completed the deal, and they now find themselves competing in the NBA Finals.
This could be a devastating trio

LeBron’s could be related to what happens with his son Bronny

In addition to focusing on his own career decisions, LeBron James is closely watching his son, Bronny James, as he nears the NBA draft. Fans are speculating whether Bronny will enter the draft or stay in college. LeBron has expressed excitement about possibly playing alongside his son during his final NBA season, increasing interest in Bronny’s journey.

Rich Paul, CEO of Klutch Sports, confirmed that Bronny will stay in the draft, exciting the four-time NBA champion. Bronny is projected as a second-round pick and has received workout invitations from several NBA teams, including the Lakers and Suns. While there is uncertainty, anticipation is high about LeBron’s promise to play with his son. Meanwhile, Bronny might join the G-League to prepare for the NBA.

The next few months will reveal Bronny’s path. If LeBron shares a season with his son, the hype and anticipation will be unmatched. All eyes will be on Bronny to see if he is ready for professional play.

Weirdest thing in the world”- LeBron James berates Caitlin Clark’s critics citing son Bronny James’ example

LeBron James responds to Caitlin Clark’s critics and aligns the same treatment being done to Bronny James 

When it comes to receiving strong criticism throughout one’s professional career, LeBron James is no stranger to being at the end of it. Being a popular figure in sports garners expectations and pressure, which the Lakers star highlighted as something Bronny James and Caitlin Clark are dealing with. With 21 NBA seasons under his belt, outside noise has become a normal thing for James.

On the latest episode of “Mind the Game” podcast with JJ Redick, the Lakers star drew a similar position that Bronny James and Cailin Clark find themselves in right now. With Bronny being related to the four-time NBA Champion and Clark envisioned as one of the many faces of the WNBA, people will tend to expect a lot out of those kinds of individuals.

Despite both players only trying to make it big in professional sports, LeBron James pointed out that there will always be doubts.

 

“I’m kind of getting the same thing from watching my son, who’s a 19-year-old, kind of getting a lot of animosity and hatred towards him when he’s just trying to live out their dream of playing the professional sport,” James said. “That is the weirdest thing in the world, but it is what it is, and I’m glad that Caitlin has a great head on her shoulders.”

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Be that as it may, the four-time NBA MVP credited Clark for keeping her head high through it all.

LeBron James advised Caitlin Clark

During the same podcast episode, LeBron James shared important advice with the Indiana Fever rookie, who has a lot placed on her shoulders.

“My advice to Caitlin, and my advice to anyone that comes in with this level of notoriety, out-of-this world expectation, whatever the case may be, be a horse, man,” James said. “Put your blinders on, go to work, show up to work, punch your clock in, prepare yourself, work on your game, work on your craft.” [43:20 onwards].

Following four incredible seasons playing for the Iowa Hawkeyes during her college career, Clark continues to navigate her way in transitioning to the WNBA.

From different defensive coverages to other complexities of the game, the Fever rookie still has a long way to go if she wants to tap into her full potential on the court.

For someone of LeBron James’ character, who also entered the league at a young age, his advice comes from experience and years of continuously honing one’s craft.

Cloѕe-Up Of The Shoeѕ Uѕed By Mіchael Jordаn At The Fіnals In 1998 Wіth The Sаme Prіce Aѕ A Mаnsion, Mаking Them The Moѕt ‘Expensive’ Shoeѕ In The World!!

In the world of sports memorabilia, few items hold as much reverence and value as the shoes worn by Michael Jordan during the 1998 NBA Finals. Known as the “Last Dance” season, these shoes have recently been spotlighted for their staggering value, equating to the price of a luxury mansion, and earning the title of the most expensive shoes in the world.

 

 

 

The 1998 NBA Finals marked the culmination of Jordan’s legendary career with the Chicago Bulls, as he led the team to their sixth championship. The shoes he wore during this historic series are not just any sneakers; they are a symbol of his unparalleled legacy in basketball. Each detail, from the iconic design to the wear and tear visible on the shoes, tells a story of hard-fought battles on the court.

The shoes are a pair of Air Jordan 14s, a model that has become synonymous with excellence and style. Featuring a sleek, aerodynamic design inspired by Jordan’s love for sports cars, the shoes boast a blend of black and red, the signature colors of the Chicago Bulls. The Jumpman logo, representing Jordan’s soaring prowess, is prominently displayed, making these shoes instantly recognizable to fans worldwide.

What makes these shoes truly invaluable is their connection to a pivotal moment in sports history. The 1998 Finals saw Jordan deliver some of his most memorable performances, including the iconic game-winning shot in Game 6 against the Utah Jazz. This moment, frozen in time, is often replayed and celebrated, with the shoes Jordan wore becoming a tangible piece of that legacy.

Recently, these shoes have been appraised at prices that rival luxury real estate. With estimates reaching millions of dollars, they are considered the most expensive shoes ever sold. This valuation reflects not only their rarity and condition but also the cultural and emotional significance they hold for basketball fans and collectors.

The sale of Jordan’s 1998 Finals shoes underscores the booming market for sports memorabilia. Collectors and enthusiasts are willing to pay top dollar for items that carry a piece of sports history. The shoes represent a pinnacle of athletic achievement and the end of an era, making them a coveted artifact for any serious collector.

Stephen A. Smith is mad at LeBron James for Bronny James’ rising draft stock but he should really be mad at ESPN

One thing you’ve got to respect about Stephen A. Smith is that he’s never one to hold his tongue. Whenever he senses something fishy, he calls it out, regardless of whether he’s right or wrong. That’s why the whole Bronny James situation is currently on his radar.

Bronny James recently climbed up ESPN‘s big board for the NBA Draft, now ranked as the No. 54 prospect available after the NBA Draft Combine. This ranking is intriguingly close to where the Los Angeles Lakers are picking at No. 55 this year. It’s no secret that LeBron James has expressed a strong desire to play with his son, adding a layer of suspicion to the ranking. 

Stephen A. Smith, known for his outspoken nature, voiced his concerns on First Take. While he’s not directly accusing LeBron of manipulating the situation, he’s not dismissing the possibility either. Smith’s comments reflect his skepticism about the timing and circumstances surrounding Bronny’s rise in the draft rankings.

“So much of what’s transpiring seems so transparent, it’s insulting. You have a situation here where Bronny James is projected as ranked 98th in the talent pool. He goes to the NBA combine and drops 44 slots to 54, and the Lakers have the 55th pick in the second round. I mean, really? … At some point, it’s like too much looks too damn obvious. And so I look at Bronny James and I’m like, man, I’m rooting for this kid… But when stuff like this happens, it just invites cynicism and skepticism. And that’s totally unfair to this kid.”

While it’s easy to see why Smith is skeptical, it’s important to consider a few key points. LeBron James has made it no secret that he wants to play with Bronny. It’s only natural to expect that desire to influence the Lakers’ decision-making with the 55th pick. However, the rankings on ESPN’s big board are determined by ESPN analysts, not LeBron or the Lakers.

 

If Stephen A. Smith wants to blame anyone for the perceived manipulation of the rankings, perhaps he should start with his own employer. ESPN is responsible for the rankings, not LeBron. The convenience of Bronny’s rise in the rankings aligning with the Lakers’ draft position might be coincidental, but it doesn’t necessarily imply foul play.

 

It’s fair to question the influence LeBron has on team decisions. Smith’s skepticism about the potential hiring of JJ Redick as the Lakers’ head coach after appearing on LeBron’s podcast is a valid point. However, it’s essential to separate healthy skepticism from baseless accusations.

LeBron’s desire to play with his son is well-documented, and it’s expected to impact decisions. But suggesting that LeBron is directly manipulating ESPN’s rankings without concrete evidence seems like a stretch. The skepticism should be directed towards understanding the decision-making process at ESPN rather than blaming LeBron for wanting to fulfill a personal dream.

Stephen A. Smith’s critique of Bronny James’ draft ranking raises important questions about transparency and fairness. While it’s natural to be skeptical, it’s crucial to focus on the right targets. LeBron’s influence is undeniable, but the rankings are ultimately an ESPN decision.

As the draft approaches, it will be interesting to see how this narrative unfolds and whether Bronny James’ draft position truly reflects his talent or external influences. Until then, the debate sparked by Stephen A. Smith reminds us of the complexities and politics within professional sports.

Bronny James is not an NBA player nor is he close to being one’: Is LeBron’s son overrated?

Bronny is being scrutinized by analysts and scouts at the NBA Draft Combine.

At the NBA Draft Combine in Chicago, which features the most promising young players aspiring to be selected in the upcoming Draft on June 27, one player drawing significant attention isn’t expected to be in the Top 10, Top 20, or even the Top 40.

This young player, who until recently wasn’t even on the radar, is Bronny James. Despite not being a top prospect, he is the focus of many scouts present at the combine.

Bronny, the son of LeBron James, plans to enter the next NBA Draft. Due to his famous last name and father, he is drawing a lot of attention from analysts.

 

LeBron James has publicly expressed his desire to share a team with his son before retiring. Considering LeBron will turn 40 this December, Bronny’s future could be linked to his father’s. However, according to reports from scouts, it won’t be easy for a team to decide to select him.

 

 

His Small Stature (1.87m): Bronny’s Main Handicap

Bronny James is a 19-year-old point guard standing at 1.87 meters (6’2″), which is considered small for the NBA. This height is his main handicap, even though he tries to make up for it with strong defensive play. However, his defense doesn’t seem enough to compensate for his lack of scoring ability.

Experts believe he could only play in the NBA as a secondary player. There are also concerns about his physical condition after suffering a cardiac arrest 10 months ago while training with his university team, USC.

Veteran scouts monitoring his progress at the Draft Combine in Chicago are not very optimistic about his chances of playing in the NBA. In fact, they are quite the opposite.

 

ESPN NBA analyst Marc Spears shared some opinions about Bronny after his initial practices and games on campus, and some of the feedback is harsh.

 

“He did some good things, but I still don’t think he’s ready for the NBA,” said one anonymous scout, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to restrictions on discussing draft prospects publicly.

“He’s on the smaller side, so he’ll need to be an elite defender. It’s clear he has good vision, makes the right passes, and takes good shots. But he will need more time. If the Lakers don’t pick him, I don’t see anyone else drafting him.”

Highly Critical of His Skills

Spears shared another report from a scout who was much more critical of Bronny’s game. The scout noted that Bronny’s defensive abilities do not compensate for his short stature, as taller players, which is almost everyone, continuously sought to score over him.

“No, he’s not good enough. Maybe if he went back to college for one or two more years. But right now, he’s not an NBA player. He’s not even close.”

In the two practice games he played in Chicago, Bronny did not stand out. He scored four points and grabbed four rebounds in the first game, and in the second game, he slightly improved with 10 points and four rebounds, showing glimpses of solid defense against the ball handler. However, even this improvement did not convince the scouts, who were very harsh in their assessments of the legend’s son.

He’s a conventional athlete, not an elite one. Given his height, he should play as a point guard, but he’s not capable of running an offense. And he has serious issues playing as a shooting guard because he can’t shoot: 0/4 in one game and 1/3 in another. He needs screens to generate shots, and his only points come in the paint after fakes,” said one scout.

The criticisms didn’t stop there. “He can only play on the left side,” they noted as another major flaw.

“His strong suit should be defense, but he loses it as soon as there’s a switch. All the bigger players target him to score more easily in front of him.”

Former Michael Jordan teammate drops LeBron James truth bomb: “No NBA player actually thinks LeBron is the GOAT”

 

The GOAT has always included two players at the top, LeBron James and Michael Jordan. Over the years, debates about who the best player in the history of the NBA have been the biggest topic among fans, analysts and players. Recently, a former teammate of Jordan was asked about the GOAT debate and made a surprising statement about it.

 

 

The GOAT debate centers around the accomplishments of both players. Fans of the former Chicago Bulls star argue that Jordan has more championships and MVPs, some even mention his Finals record of 6-0.

The fans of the LA Lakers star have argued that his all-around accomplishments should be taken into consideration. James is the all- team leader in scoring and is the only player with 40,000 points, 10,000 rebounds and 10,000 assists.

 

 

Through all this, fans have been curious as to what NBA players think about the GOAT debate. Recently, Kwame Brown was interviewed on the YouTube channel, Dreamers Pro, about the GOAT debate.

 

“People say LeBron is the GOAT because he controls the media… no NBA player actually thinks LeBron is the GOAT,” Brown said.

Raising Boyz II Men”: LeBron James displays impeccable fatherly love to Bronny and Bryce James

LeBron with his sons Bronny and Bryce (via Instagram)

 

The family of NBA superstar LeBron James is one of the most renowned in the NBA. LeBron met with his wife Savannah back in high school and the couple has been together since then. Since then, they have been blessed with three children- Bronny, Bryce and Zhuri. Both the boys have taken after their father and play basketball. The elder one plays point guard while the younger son primarily plays shooting guard.

Bronny recently turned 19 on October 6 while Bryce is 16 years old. LeBron recently shared an Instagram story with his two sons. The picture is a collage showing LeBron with his boys back when they were kids and a picture in the present day. Showing his fatherly love for the boys in the story, he also wrote,

 

“Raising Boyz II Men”

 

“Nothing I wouldn’t do to protect yall”

LeBron with his sons Bronny and Bryce (via Instagram)
When his elder son was born, LeBron was coming off his first year in the NBA with the Cleveland Cavaliers where he won the ‘Rookie Of The Year’ award. LeBron averaged 20.9 points, 5.5 rebounds, 5.9 assists, 1.6 steals and 0.7 blocks per game as a rookie. 

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His second son Bryce was born in the year 2007. By that time, LeBron had established himself as a superstar in the league leading the Cavs to multiple playoff appearances. In the season prior to Bryce’s birth, LeBron averaged 27.3 points, 6.7 rebounds and 6.0 assists per game.

Bronny and Bryce take after their superstar father

Bronny James will be eligible for the NBA draft in 2024. LeBron has previously also stated his desire to play at least one season with his son before retiring. The 6’4″ guard last played for Sierra Canyon School and will be playing his first-ever season of NCAA college basketball for USC in the upcoming season. He was ranked #19 in the ESPN 100 for the class of 2023.

In an unfortunate turn of events, a month back, Bronny suffered from a cardiac arrest in a pre-season workout with the USC Trojans. The cause of the cardiac arrest was later found to be a congenital heart defect. Later it was reported that his condition was fully treatable and he would continue playing basketball.

Bryce on the other hand would be eligible for the NBA draft in 2029. The 16-year old who is already 6’5″ previously played for Sierra Canyon School. This season he transferred to Notre Dame High School and would be playing for them this year.

Don’t get it twisted. Don’t get it f****d up. Caitlin Clark is the reason why a lot of great things is going to happen for the WNBA.”

NBA icons LeBron James and Charles Barkley are under fire for their recent comments supporting WNBA star Caitlin Clark.

The men face criticism for stating that WNBA players and fans should be grateful for what the rookie is doing for the league instead of complaining about how things are getting done. However, many seem to agree with their take.

 

Lebron James, Charles Barkley

To give a little context to what’s been going on, #1 WNBA draft pick Caitlin Clark has received both praise and criticism for the positive effect she’s had on the league since entering earlier this year. Critics have expressed frustration that the 22-year-old’s presence has seemingly caused the WNBA to make notable changes, specifically their decision to finally invest $25 million so players can travel via charter planes.

 

Caitlin Clark

However, veteran athletes such as LeBron James and Charles Barkley disapprove of Clark’s criticism. Speaking about the situation during a recent podcast appearance, LeBron James stated about the Indiana Fever player:

“The one thing that I love that she’s bringing to her sport, more people want to watch…don’t get it f**ked up, Caitlin Clark is the reason why a lot of great things is going to happen for the WNBA.”

LEBRON: “Don’t get it twisted. Don’t get it f****d up. Caitlin Clark is the reason why a lot of great things is going to happen for the WNBA.”

The Lakers star also advised Clark not to “get involved” in the internet chatter and to just play the game and have fun. He also shared his hope that she and other players continue to excel and bring even more attention to the WNBA.

Charles Barkley subsequently echoed similar sentiments. Supporting James‘ comments during a TV appearance, the sports analyst stated:

“You women out there, y’all petty man. Lebron you 100% right. These women hating on Caitlin Clark…y’all should be thanking that girl for getting y’all a** private charters, all the money and visibility she’s bringing to the WNBA. Don’t be petty like dudes…give her her flowers. Stop being petty all you women out there.”

Reacting to both of their defense of Clark, social users seemed majorly split on how they felt about the remarks. Some commenters strongly agreed with James and Barkley, and further condemned all those who have been critical of the attention Clark has been getting.

Others took issue with the fact that the basketball greats addressed the hate surrounding Clark, but seemingly had nothing to say about the unwarranted criticism WNBA star Angel Reese has received.

See reactions below:

 

 

Los Angeles Lakers Star LeBron James Made NBA History

On Wednesday evening, the All-NBA teams were announced by the league.

Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James was named to the All-NBA Third Team.

 

He finished the regular season with averages of 25.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, 8.3 assists and 1.3 steals per contest while shooting 54.0% from the field and 41.0% from the three-point range in 71 games.

Via Underdog NBA: “2023-24 All-NBA Third Team:
Tyrese Haliburton
Stephen Curry
LeBron James
Devin Booker
Domantas Sabonis”

 

By being named to the All-NBA Team, James made history.

 

Via ESPN’s SportsCenter: “LeBron James becomes the oldest player to make an All-NBA team in league history 👑”

James will turn 40 during the middle of next season, but he is still among the top 15 players in the league.

This past season, the Lakers finished as the eighth seed in the Western Conference with a 46-36 record.

After beating the New Orleans Pelicans in the play-in tournament, they lost to Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets in the first round (in five games).

 

Apr 29, 2024; Denver, Colorado, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) in the third quarter against the Denver Nuggets during game five of the first round for the 2024 NBA playoffs at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports / Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports 

James has been with the Lakers for six seasons and they have made the NBA playoffs four times.

They won the 2020 NBA Championship and reached the Western Conference Finals in 2023.

This summer, James will have to decide on a $51.4 million player-option.

If he declines, he will become a free agent.

James has career averages of 27.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, 7.4 assists and 1.5 steals per contest while shooting 50.6% from the field and 34.8% from the three-point range 1,492 regular season games.

Rich Paul: ‘LeBron [James] is a free agent’

 

Although LeBron James can opt out of his contract and become a free agent this summer, there doesn’t seem to be the same type of anticipation or angst regarding his potential free agency as there was in the past when he was in the same situation.

He is widely expected to turn down his player option for next season and become a free agent. Many expect him to stay with the Los Angeles Lakers one way or another, and one report even indicated that he may do so by actually opting in instead.

During the alternate broadcast of Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals, Rich Paul, James’ agent, may have revealed the superstar’s plan.

 

 

It has been reported that part of James’ plan is to play two more seasons, at least for now. He just completed his 21st year in the NBA, and despite turning 39 years of age, he maintained the type of production he has always had throughout his career.

That production resulted in him being named to the All-NBA Third Team this season. It was the 20th time he had been selected to one of the All-NBA squads.