LeBron James recently appeared on the Pat McAfee Show, engaging in a wide-ranging conversation. The NBA icon announced the relaunch of his podcast `Mind the Game`, this time co-hosted with basketball Hall of Famer Steve Nash. He also discussed various topics, including playing alongside his new teammate Luka Dončić and his passion for football. James even addressed the persistent rumor about spending over $1 million annually to maintain his physique, jokingly dismissing it as unfounded.
The extensive interview was filled with candid responses. Here are some key moments from their discussion.
LeBron Jokes About Giannis Dominating in the 70s
The debate about comparing players from different eras is a recurring theme. The arguments often fall into two categories: either current players wouldn`t succeed in the more physical past, or modern stars would easily outperform legends of the past. LeBron seems to lean towards the latter perspective, challenging those who disagree.
`Are you suggesting Giannis wouldn`t be able to play in the NBA during the 70s?` James questioned. `Giannis Antetokounmpo would score 250 points per game in the 70s. No disrespect to past players, but seriously – Kyrie Irving… they would have told Kyrie he`s not allowed to dribble anymore.`
LeBron is confident in his own ability to excel in any era. `I could play in any era. You hear some older guys say, `LeBron James couldn`t play in this era.“
`Can`t put myself in [Luka`s] shoes`
The Mavericks trading Dončić remains a surprising event, even months later. However, his partnership with James appears seamless.
`There`s a reason he`s called Luka Magic; he`s a truly exceptional player,` James commented. `I can`t fully understand his situation, having never been traded myself. But I can empathize with the shock of committing to a franchise for seven years, believing it`s your long-term home, and then suddenly being traded. Regardless of the destination or teammates, it`s a system shock.`
James mentioned advising Dončić to maintain his playing style, emphasizing that the team would adapt to him.
`I felt it was important to tell him that he needs to continue being himself,` James explained. `For us to reach our full potential, he has to be that leading player. We will adjust and work with him because we need him to be who he is.`
This approach seems to be benefiting the Lakers. Despite some recent setbacks, they have shown strong performance since the All-Star break and could be a formidable force in the playoffs, largely due to Dončić`s contribution.
James` Relationship with Michael Jordan
LeBron has consistently acknowledged Michael Jordan`s profound influence and inspiration throughout his life. Wearing jersey No. 23 as a tribute to Jordan is a well-known fact he reaffirmed on McAfee`s show. While not currently close, James hopes their relationship will evolve after he retires.
`We are in a good place,` James stated. He believes the lack of communication is due to his active playing career. `I`m still playing, still focused on my career.`
James drew a parallel with his relationship with Kobe Bryant.
`Kobe and I didn`t have a close relationship until we played together on the Olympic team, where we developed a great bond,` James shared. `Before that, there was always competition between us. It wasn`t until I joined the Lakers and he retired that our relationship truly deepened. …I believe because I`m still competing, and we all know MJ is an ultimate competitor. Until I`m done playing and he doesn`t have to see me wearing number 23 and constantly being compared to him, he might feel like, “I don`t want to talk to you.”`
Being the Face of the League
James recently expressed understanding for Anthony Edwards` reluctance to be labeled the next face of the league. He highlighted the negativity often directed at players by media and commentators, questioning the appeal of such responsibility.
On Wednesday, James elaborated on how this role was assigned to him.
`I never sought to be the face of the league, but I recognized the responsibility to represent the league in a positive way,` James explained. `I aimed to embody the image of a modern citizen and a role model. Some players didn`t want to be role models or fully embrace the game. I saw an opportunity to not only play the game I love but also inspire fans and invite them to follow my journey. That led to me becoming the face of the league.`
LeBron Comments on Lottery Conspiracies
The NBA might not appreciate this part of James` interview. He discussed the Cleveland Cavaliers winning the No. 1 pick in the 2003 draft lottery, which enabled them to draft him. Longstanding conspiracy theories suggest the league manipulates draft lotteries to ensure certain players end up in specific markets. James, for the first time, hinted at these theories.
Reflecting on the responsibility of being the league`s face, James implied that perhaps more than luck was involved in Cleveland`s 2003 lottery win.
`During the lottery, Cleveland got the No. 1 pick?` James remarked. `I just think – what a coincidence. Let`s keep LeBron home. Patrick Ewing to the Knicks, Derrick Rose to the Bulls, I understand the assignment.`
While seemingly joking, James` comments are likely to fuel existing conspiracy theories among fans.
Jasper Hawthorne