LeBron James, who was named an Honorary Chair for this year`s Met Gala back in February, initially seemed free to attend after his Lakers were eliminated from the NBA playoffs in five games by the Minnesota Timberwolves.
However, shortly after that Game 5 loss, news emerged that the 40-year-old star had sustained a Grade 2 MCL sprain. This injury, severe enough to sideline him for weeks, also impacts his ability to attend formal events like the gala.
Consequently, James announced on Monday morning that he would not be in attendance for that evening`s festivities. While James remains in Los Angeles to focus on rehab for his knee, his wife, Savannah James, will attend the gala, representing their family.
It`s a prudent decision, as navigating the Met Gala`s red carpet, which famously involves climbing a large flight of stairs, is far from ideal for someone recovering from a sprained MCL.
The dress code for this year`s event is “Tailoring Black Style.” Despite his absence, James, as an Honorary Chair, will still have had influence on the gala. A number of other athletes are expected to attend the annual first Monday in May event, including co-chair Lewis Hamilton, along with Simone Biles, Jonathan Owens, Sha’Carri Richardson, and Angel Reese from the host committee.
Jasper Hawthorne