LeBron James has continued to call out the referees, with his frustration stemming from the Lakers attempting just eight free throws compared to the Suns’ 19 during LA’s 123-113 loss in Phoenix on Sunday.

James has been riding the referees for much of the season, despite the Lakers’ having the most favourable free-throw differential in the NBA by far.

“A lot of people, a lot of coaches, a lot of teams are like, ‘That’s all the Lakers do is get to the free throw line,’” James said. “It’s like this narrative out there that that’s all we do is get to the free throw line. I mean, we have attackers. That’s what we do. We have attackers.

“Yeah, we shoot the ball from the perimeter, but we’re not shooting 40 to 50 3s a game. We’re not that team. We don’t have the luxury of being that team. So, working it into the paint, that’s what we’re really good at. “To have eight free throw attempts is definitely not us. I know, definitely, I got hit a couple times when I got to the paint tonight that wasn’t called. But it is what it is.”

 

Meanwhile, Lakers coach Darvin Ham was especially frustrated over what he perceived to be a one-sided whistle.

“I’m not one to use referees as an excuse,” Ham said. “But it’s becoming increasingly tough because of the inconsistency. I’m seeing our guys get the same contact on them as we’re supposedly committing. And the whistle is not being blown.

“That’s something we focus on, trying to win the free throw line every game. And so that’s tough. I’m telling my guys to drive downhill; we’re trying to love and live in the paint. And you’re not getting calls. I see guys with their hands in our guys’ ribs or swinging, swiping at their heads, trying to block the shot but not getting the ball, but getting a piece of the body. And it’s not being called, as simple as that. So, we have to figure out ways to not let that be a problem, but it’s tough. Again, it’s frustrating when there’s so much inconsistency.”

Following Sunday’s loss to the Suns, the Lakers now sit at 31-28 in ninth spot in the West.

 

HOUSTON, TEXAS – MARCH 28: Bronny James #6 of the West team talks to Lebron James of the Los Angeles … [+]

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LeBron James may have to wait until 2025 for his son Bronny to join him in the NBA.

According to the latest ESPN.com NBA mock draft for 2025, Bronny is now the projected No. 39 pick next year. He is no longer projected in the 2024 Draft because he is not in the Top 60 of this year’s projected picks.

Of course, it’s still possible Bronny declares for the draft after this season. The 2025 Draft —headlined by Duke commit Cooper Flagg and Rutgers signee Ace Bailey — will be much stronger than this year’s.

LeBron responded Monday on social media, saying, in part: “These mock drafts [don’t] matter one bit! I promise you that! Only THE WORK matters!!”

Bronny, a 6-foot-4 freshman guard, is currently averaging 5.5 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.5 assists for USC.

“I think it’s very possible and probably likely that he still declares for the draft after the year,” Adam Finkelstein of 247Sports.com said on College Basketball Recruiting Weekly.

“And if you have followed LeBron James over the years, you should know that this is a man who dictates more front office moves than maybe any player in NBA history. He’s been setting this up for two years. I think it’s very possible Bronny James is in the NBA next year, but as I said last year, that won’t be based solely on his own merit as a prospect but on what comes with being LeBron James’ son.”

LeBron is on record saying he would like to play with Bronny in the NBA.

“I need to be on the floor with my boy,” he told ESPN in January 2023. “I got to be on the floor with Bronny. Either in the same uniform or a matchup against him…I don’t mean like guarding one another all game – because he’s a point guard and I’m a – at this point now I’m playing center or whatever the team needs from me. But I would love to do the whole Ken Griffey Sr. and Jr. thing. That would be ideal for sure.”

 

LeBron James and Kevin Durant will face off Sunday (3:30 p.m. ET on ABC) in another chapter of the story of two of the NBA’s greatest players.

James and Durant have faced off 39 times across the regular season and playoffs, including three NBA Finals. Before their first matchup of this season on Oct. 26, 2023, they had gone almost five years without playing against one another in a game, the last time being Christmas Day 2018.

Sunday’s meeting has important implications for the Western Conference standings. The Phoenix Suns are the No. 8 seed, while the Los Angeles Lakers are No. 9 heading into Sunday.

James is averaging 24.9 points, the highest-ever for anyone in their 21st season in the NBA. Durant’s average of 28.1 points is the highest for any player in their 16th season.

Here are more notable numbers behind the matchup between James and Durant.

18: In 25 regular-season meetings, James leads the head-to-head record at 18-7, the best mark by any player against Durant (minimum of 25 games).

However, Durant leads the all-time playoff series record at 9-5 across three NBA Finals. Durant beat James in 2017 and 2018 with the Golden State Warriors, but James won in 2012 with the Miami Heat.

68,194: It’s no secret that James and Durant are two of the NBA’s top scorers ever.

James is the NBA’s all-time leading scorer and just over 100 points away from becoming the first player with 40,000 regular-season points. Durant is the ninth-leading scorer, after passing Carmelo Anthony on Friday, and is 301 away from passing Shaquille O’Neal for eighth.

Heading into Sunday, James and Durant have combined for 68,194 points, the most entering a matchup in NBA history. That surpasses the total of 67,331 combined between Michael Jordan and Karl Malone on Feb. 14, 2003.

29.0: Durant has had his fair share of high scoring outputs against James.

In 25 regular-season games, Durant has averaged 29 points, the most by any player to face James multiple times. The Suns forward has outscored James 21 times across 39 regular-season and playoff meetings.

However, the highest-scoring game belongs to James — a 51-point performance in Game 1 of the 2018 NBA Finals.

Durant’s career points average of 27.3 is sixth all-time behind qualified players, just ahead of James at No. 7 with a 27.1 average.

1,201: The Lakers forward holds not only the NBA’s career scoring record, but also the mark for the most consecutive games with at least 10 points at 1,201. Durant has the fifth-longest such streak at 562 games from 2009 to 2017.

The last time James failed to score 10 points in a regular-season game was Jan. 5, 2007, against the Milwaukee Bucks. At the time, Durant was a freshman with the Texas Longhorns. James’ streak began on Jan. 6, 2007, the same day Durant scored 37 against the Colorado Buffaloes, his first 30-point game.

In their previous meeting last month, James had just 10 points, the fewest by either player in a game against one another, and Durant had 18. It marked the first time since Nov. 26, 2008, that both players had fewer than 20 points in one of their matchups.

 

Year 21 has been better than expected for Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James as he looks healthy and is proving to the NBA that he can play at a high level no matter how old he gets.

James remains a physical marvel who can still barrel through his younger contemporaries and finish strong at the rim, but his impressive basketball IQ also allows him to read the floor in an instant and make the right play. Watching James play this well this late into his career is a treat and is largely why his agent Rich Paul isn’t thinking about his eventual retirement.

However, James’ future with the Lakers is an open question as he has a player option for the 2024-25 season. He has yet to indicate which direction he’s leaning in, which means the Lakers will have to wait and see what he wants to do for next year and beyond.

 

Despite the team’s struggles this season, Brian Windhorst believes that he wants to stay in L.A. for the foreseeable future, via ESPN’s First Take:

“I don’t think this is LeBron’s last stand,” Windhorst said. “I don’t think this is the Lakers’ last stand. First off, I think LeBron is angling to sign a multiyear deal in the offseason with the Lakers that will be nine figures. That will be even bigger than the deal he is on now. Now, whether or not he’s able to finish that deal, whether or not the Lakers want to give him a three-year contract and pay him $60 million when he’s 42 years old, that’s a different discussion.”

Giving any player that sort of guaranteed money is a risk, but James is worth it and then some given his popularity and skill on the floor. Although a three-year deal would take James into his age-42 season, he hasn’t shown any signs of slowing down.

Even if LeBron can’t run and jump like he used to, his playmaking ability will be just fine. Los Angeles should do everything it can to convince James to stay because there’s no way of replacing him.

LeBron James believes Victor Wembanyama has no ceiling

If James were to sign a multiyear deal, he would remain the face of the league. However, once he does eventually retire it looks like he has a worthy successor in San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama.

After the two met in a recent game, James said that thinks Wembanyama has no ceiling, giving high praise to the French phenom.

First and foremost, LeBron James is a dad.

 

First. And. Foremost.

It’s been that way for some time now, if you’ve been paying attention.

So, it wasn’t a surprise when James responded to a mock draft that has Bronny, James’ oldest son and a freshman basketball player at Southern California who sustained a sudden cardiac arrest in the summer, out of the first round and a projected second-round pick in 2025.

James posted on social media, “Can yall please just let the kid be a kid and enjoy college basketball. The work and results will ultimately do the talking no matter what he decides to do. If y’all don’t know he doesn’t care what a mock draft says, he just WORKS! Earned Not Given!”

He added: “And to all the other kids out there striving to be great just keep your head down, blinders on and keep grinding. These Mock Drafts doesn’t matter one bit! I promise you! Only the WORK MATTERS!! Let’s talk REAL BASKETBALL PEOPLE!”

He later deleted the posts but he can’t make it disappear and the sentiment remains.

James wields enormous influence, and what he says and does carries significance. For at least six years, James has answered questions about the idea of playing in the NBA at the same time as his son and has embraced the idea.

Father-son NBA connections are not uncommon and the trend isn’t going away with the sons of former NBA players projected in future drafts. But no father-son combo has played in the NBA simultaneously, and that would be special, a testament to James’ incredible longevity and all-time greatness and his son’s basketball ability.

It’s a cool story.

A year ago, Bronny began entering the discussion as a potential first-round pick in the 2024 draft. As his senior year progressed, he improved, and others in the draft class of 2024 were not making dramatic improvements.

Based on what the elder James had said in the past, teams also considered the idea of drafting Bronny with the idea that James spends a season on the same team – a boon for basketball and business operations.

But circumstances change. Goals change.

Life changes.

In July, Bronny sustained a sudden cardiac arrest while working on USC’s campus, and he could’ve died. For a parent, nothing is more important than the health of a child. Everything else is secondary.

It took time for Bronny to recover, regain strength and stamina and eventually obtain clearance from doctors to play basketball again. In December as Bronny neared his first college game, James said he would miss a Lakers game if it meant seeing that game in person.

Few understand what it’s like to be James and how to manage expectations, and now James is helping his son navigate expectations that are out of their control. It is unavoidable and sometimes unfair. That’s why he stepped in – to help manage that pressure without a negative impact. There might not be anyone better to both understand and guide.

Now, James also said in January that Bronny could play for the Lakers “right now. Easy,” and that carries significant weight, too. If anyone knows who is and isn’t an NBA player, it’s James, and that alters expectations, too.

It’s easy to throw that back at James even it was a line uttered during a spell in which the Lakers were not playing well. But separate from that and in light of the mock draft report, James felt the paternal instinct to protect his son. Nothing wrong with that.

(James has a point about mock drafts. They are useful and entertaining but they are not perfect. That goes for NBA executives and their projections, too, or players such as Nikola Jokic and Draymond Green would’ve been drafted in the first round).

James has said the family will go through the process of figuring out what’s best and what’s next and that it’s Bronny’s decision. Maybe that’s the 2024 draft. Maybe it’s another year at USC. And whether the NBA is part of Bronny’s future will play out in time.

While he might not be a kid in the technical definition (he’s 19), he’s still a young person trying to figure out life after a near-death experience. It’s OK for the elder James to step in with perspective – a dad, first and foremost.

A Rising Star in the Fashion World

Zhuri Nova, at just 9 years old, is already making waves in the fashion industry and captivating the online world with her impeccable sense of style and love for makeup. With each stunning outfit and flawless makeup look, she proves that age is no barrier to expressing oneself and making a statement in the world of fashion and beauty.

From a young age, Zhuri Nova has displayed a natural talent and passion for fashion and makeup that belies her years. With a keen eye for color, texture, and design, she effortlessly puts together ensembles that are both chic and fashion-forward, earning her praise and admiration from fans and industry insiders alike.

What sets Zhuri Nova apart is not just her eye for fashion and makeup, but also her fearless approach to self-expression. Whether she’s experimenting with bold colors or pushing the boundaries of style, she embraces her individuality with confidence and grace, inspiring others to do the same.

As a young girl navigating the world of fashion and beauty, Zhuri Nova serves as a role model for her peers and fans around the world. Through her social media presence and public appearances, she encourages other young girls to embrace their unique sense of style and express themselves authentically, regardless of societal expectations or norms.

In the age of social media and digital influence, Zhuri Nova has quickly risen to prominence as a fashion icon and makeup enthusiast. With a growing following on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, she uses her platform to share her passion for fashion and beauty with the world, inspiring others to embrace their creativity and pursue their dreams.

In conclusion, Zhuri Nova’s transition from a 9-year-old to a fashion icon and makeup enthusiast is nothing short of remarkable. With her innate talent, confidence, and passion for self-expression, she has captured the hearts of fans around the world and established herself as a force to be reckoned with in the fashion industry. As she continues to evolve and grow, Zhuri Nova is poised to make an even bigger impact on the world of fashion and beauty in the years to come.

Lebron James’ Dope New Outfit Sends Hypebeasts Into Meltdown

LeBron James, known for his prowess on the basketball court, is also making waves in the world of fashion with his latest outfit choice. His stylish ensemble has ignited excitement and frenzy among hypebeasts and fashion enthusiasts alike, signaling a new chapter in his influence on the fashion scene.

LeBron James’ bold fashion choices have long been admired and emulated by fans around the world. With his latest outfit, he continues to set trends and push the boundaries of style, showcasing his confidence and unique sense of fashion.

LeBron James’ dope new outfit seamlessly blends elements of streetwear and luxury fashion, creating a look that is both edgy and sophisticated. From statement pieces to carefully curated accessories, every detail of his ensemble exudes style and personality.

The unveiling of LeBron James’ new outfit has sent hypebeasts into a frenzy, with social media platforms buzzing with excitement and speculation about the brands and designers behind his look. His influence on the fashion world is undeniable, as fans eagerly await the opportunity to emulate his style.

LeBron James’ fashion choices inspire confidence and individuality, encouraging others to embrace their own unique sense of style. His ability to effortlessly mix and match different pieces serves as a reminder that fashion is a form of self-expression, allowing individuals to showcase their personality and creativity.

In conclusion, LeBron James’ dope new outfit is a testament to his evolving influence on the fashion world. With his bold choices and fearless attitude, he continues to solidify his status as a fashion icon, inspiring hypebeasts and fashion enthusiasts to embrace style with confidence and flair.

LeBron James, the NBA superstar and cultural icon, recently made headlines with the purchase of a stunning 13,930-square-foot mansion in Miami. Situated in one of the city’s most prestigious neighborhoods, James’ new abode is a testament to his unparalleled success and lavish lifestyle. Let’s take a closer look at the luxurious features of this impressive estate.

Upon entering LeBron James’ Miami mansion, guests are greeted by a grand foyer adorned with elegant decor and exquisite detailing. The spacious entryway sets the tone for the rest of the home, offering a glimpse of the opulence that awaits within.

Spanning over 13,000 square feet, James’ mansion boasts an array of expansive living spaces perfect for both entertaining and relaxation. From formal dining rooms to cozy lounges, every corner of the home exudes warmth and sophistication.

No expense has been spared in outfitting LeBron James’ Miami mansion with state-of-the-art amenities designed to elevate the living experience. From a fully-equipped gym and spa to a home theater and game room, the estate offers endless opportunities for leisure and recreation.

One of the most captivating features of James’ Miami mansion is its breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Whether lounging by the pool or enjoying a meal al fresco, residents are treated to panoramic vistas that showcase the beauty of Miami’s skyline and waterfront.

Throughout the mansion, LeBron James has spared no expense in selecting the finest finishes and materials to adorn every surface. From marble countertops to custom woodwork, the home exudes a sense of luxury and refinement at every turn.

Above all, LeBron James’ Miami mansion serves as a personal sanctuary where he can unwind and recharge amidst the hustle and bustle of his busy schedule. With its serene ambiance and unparalleled amenities, the estate offers a retreat from the pressures of fame and fortune.

In conclusion, LeBron James’ acquisition of a $18.5 million mansion in Miami is a testament to his success and status as one of the world’s most recognizable athletes. With its luxurious features and breathtaking views, the estate serves as a symbol of James’ unparalleled achievements and extravagant lifestyle.

Savannah James: A Style Icon in the Spotlight with her $42,500 Hermes Birkin Handbag

Savannah James, wife of NBA superstar LeBron James, recently turned heads as she casually flaunted her $42,500 Hermes Birkin handbag while attending a game where LeBron led the Lakers to victory at Madison Square Garden. The iconic Hermes Birkin is renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship, timeless design, and sky-high price tag, making it the ultimate status symbol among fashion aficionados and celebrities alike.

As Savannah James graced the sidelines of the basketball court, her effortless style and impeccable taste were on full display. The Hermes Birkin handbag, with its luxurious leather and signature gold hardware, added a touch of sophistication to her ensemble, effortlessly elevating casual chic to new heights. Paired with understated elegance, Savannah’s fashion choices exude confidence, grace, and undeniable flair.

For Savannah James, the Hermes Birkin handbag is more than just an accessory; it is a symbol of luxury, prestige, and unabashed indulgence. Crafted from the finest materials and meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans, the Birkin epitomizes timeless elegance and unparalleled quality. Its exorbitant price tag only adds to its allure, cementing its status as the ultimate trophy piece in any fashionista’s wardrobe.

While Savannah James steals the spotlight with her sartorial prowess, LeBron James continues to make waves both on and off the basketball court. As he guides the Lakers to victory with his unparalleled skill and leadership, LeBron’s influence extends far beyond the realm of sports, transcending into the worlds of fashion, entertainment, and philanthropy. Together, LeBron and Savannah form a power couple whose impact knows no bounds.

As Savannah James casually flaunts her $42,500 Hermes Birkin handbag at Madison Square Garden, it serves as a celebration of success, style, and the finer things in life. Amidst the hustle and bustle of professional basketball, Savannah’s fashion choices remind us all of the importance of self-expression and embracing luxury in its many forms. With each stride, she exudes confidence, poise, and an unwavering commitment to living life to the fullest.

In conclusion, Savannah James’ effortless flaunting of her $42,500 Hermes Birkin handbag at Madison Square Garden is a fashion moment to remember. As she basks in the limelight of her husband’s victory, Savannah embodies the epitome of style, grace, and sophistication. With her Hermes Birkin in tow, she commands attention and admiration, proving once again that true elegance knows no bounds.

Inside LeBron James’ Extravagant Car Collection: A Peek into Luxury and Opulence

In the realm where luxury meets athleticism, NBA superstar LeBron James reigns supreme not only on the basketball court but also on the streets with his opulent car collection valued at over $2.6 million. Featuring an array of prestigious brands including Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Rolls-Royce, LeBron’s fleet showcases his penchant for sophistication, style, and unparalleled extravagance.

LeBron James’ car collection reads like a catalog of automotive excellence, with each vehicle meticulously curated to reflect his discerning taste and status as a global icon. Among the crown jewels of his collection are three Ferraris, renowned for their sleek designs, unparalleled performance, and exclusivity. Complementing these Italian stallions is a Lamborghini, epitomizing raw power and unbridled luxury, alongside a Rolls-Royce, the epitome of timeless elegance and refinement.

At the heart of LeBron James’ car collection lie three Ferraris, each boasting its own distinctive charm and allure. From the iconic Ferrari 488 GTB to the breathtaking Ferrari F12 Berlinetta and the legendary Ferrari 599, these prancing horses represent the pinnacle of automotive engineering and craftsmanship. With blistering speeds, head-turning designs, and unmatched prestige, LeBron’s Ferraris are a testament to his love for the finer things in life.

Joining LeBron James’ fleet of Ferraris is a Lamborghini, a marque synonymous with unbridled performance and flamboyant styling. Whether it’s the roaring V10 engine of the Lamborghini Huracan or the imposing presence of the Lamborghini Aventador, each model exudes an aura of power, prestige, and unmatched desirability. For LeBron, the Lamborghini serves as a bold statement of his fearless approach to life, both on and off the court.

Rounding out LeBron James’ extravagant car collection is a Rolls-Royce, the epitome of automotive luxury and sophistication. With its handcrafted interiors, whisper-quiet ride, and timeless design, the Rolls-Royce represents the pinnacle of opulence and refinement. Whether chauffeuring his family in the spacious confines of a Rolls-Royce Phantom or cruising the streets in the iconic Rolls-Royce Ghost, LeBron James epitomizes elegance and grace with every journey.

LeBron James’ lavish car collection is more than just a display of wealth; it is a reflection of his unparalleled success, relentless drive, and unwavering commitment to excellence. From the adrenaline-inducing performance of his Ferraris to the understated luxury of his Rolls-Royce, each vehicle tells a story of triumph, aspiration, and the limitless possibilities that accompany greatness. As LeBron continues to conquer both the courts and the roads, his car collection stands as a testament to his indomitable spirit and enduring legacy.