Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James, during a recent appearance on ESPN’s The Pat McAfee Show, engaged in a wide-ranging conversation, touching upon topics from Giannis Antetokounmpo’s hypothetical 1970s scoring prowess to his relationship with Michael Jordan. Notably, he also addressed his perception of NBA media coverage, particularly the tendency to misinterpret his statements for sensational content.
Los Angeles Lakers’ LeBron James Throws Serious Shade At NBA Reporter
James did not shy away from naming specific media figures he considers “weird,” highlighting his frustration with certain reporting. “I’ve seen Brian Windhorst on one of these shows not too long ago… This guy says he’s like my f***ing best friend,” James stated. “These guys are just weird.” Windhorst, who has extensively covered James’ career for ESPN, shares an alma mater with the basketball star, having graduated from St. Vincent St. Mary High School in northeast Ohio.
James also referenced his recent public disagreement with ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith during a Lakers home game against the New York Knicks, reportedly stemming from Smith’s coverage of James’ son, Bronny.
While a harmonious relationship between a superstar athlete like James and the media is uncommon, the dynamic seems to have deteriorated further in recent years. It’s noteworthy that James’ comments were made on an ESPN platform, the same network employing both Smith and Windhorst.
The contemporary landscape of sports media, characterized by its “this or that” and hot-take driven nature, often leads to athletes’ words being stripped of context to fit predetermined narratives. This phenomenon is amplified when the athlete in question is as high-profile as LeBron James. It remains to be seen whether Windhorst, Smith, and other media figures targeted by James will adjust their approach in response to his direct criticism.