Carmelo Anthony snubbed LeBron James off his list of favourite teammates

Being teammates in the NBA can eventually turn into a love/hate relationship, as you live and share your locker room every day with fierce competitors that not only want the best for their team, but also individually. Carmelo Anthony recently shed some light on the complexity of fighting for the same jersey, when he named his favourite teammates of all time.

We are not saying this is the case between the former All-Star and LeBron James, but we can only speculate this after Melo snubbed the Lakers forward off his list. This surprising omission has sparked controversy over the nuances of their relationship.

It all started on the latest episode of his podcast 7PM in Brooklyn with Carmelo Anthony & The Kid Mero. "I think out of all the teammates, it would have to be, I would say, it would have to be J.R. Smith and Kenyon Martin because that's who was on my team for the longest of all of our years.

"We was in Denver. We was here in New York," Melo shared. "We spent a lot of time together to the point where it's like, I don't even have to look at you, and you know what type of mode I'm in. You know what I'm about to do. You know, you see it ahead of time."

Even though Anthony has always praised LeBron as one of the best to ever play basketball, he's recently been more vocal about his deep respect for Kevin Durant's game, who he believes deserves to be part of the GOAT conversation.

After Kevin Durant almost singlehandedly beat the Bulls at the start of the year with his 40-point performance, Carmelo appeared this year on an edition of the 7PM in Brooklyn show and shared his thoughts.

"Kevin Durant was recently interviewed, and he said, 'despite all the accolades I got, I did everything that a GOAT is supposed to do but I ain't in the GOAT conversation, what's up with that?'…So at the end of the day when it's all said and done, does KD deserve to be in the GOAT conversation?" he was asked.

Anthony has described Kevin Durant as one of the GOATs many times before, praise he's also shared for James but in a different manner

Especially in recent years, Melo has given more props to KD as the GOAT, than he has to LeBron. "…Absolutely! I hate the GOAT talk…he will go down as arguably the most purest scorer that this league has ever seen. He's a five level scorer. There's nowhere he can't score on the court. He's a champion…He's seven feet. He changed the game," he said earlier this year.

Melo then explained why he's already one of the greatest. "How [are] you not going to say he's not in the conversation with the GOAT?…If we talking ring culture, Michael Jordan is not the GOAT, Bill Russell is…But people gonna say Michael Jordan is the GOAT…to answer the question, yeah, that man is in the GOAT talk. He is a GOAT," he assured.

There's no doubt that the Phoenix superstar is one of the purest and most clutch scorers the NBA has ever seen, but is his legacy greater than we think? In a conversation this year with the press, he suggested that there's only one reason why he isn't in the GOAT conversation. 

"Because I went to the Warriors," Durant first said, as his decision to join Golden State was among the most controversial free-agent choices ever. "Why shouldn't I be in that? That's the question you should ask. Why not? What haven't I done?"

Legendary NBA Insider Retiring Before LeBron James Leads To Comical Reactions From Fans

LeBron James (Image Credit: Getty Images)

LeBron James has recently added another chapter to his storied career with a two-year contract extension from the Los Angeles Lakers. As he heads into his 22nd NBA season, speculation about his retirement swells. 

Though James has hinted that his retirement is approaching, he still seems eager to continue playing. His agent, Rich Paul, has even expressed hopes that James will extend his career by another two or three seasons.

However, the news cycle took an unexpected turn recently when ESPN analyst Adrian Wojnarowski announced his retirement. Wojnarowski is leaving ESPN for a new role at his alma mater, St. Bonaventure University. This move comes despite having three years remaining on his contract with ESPN.

The announcement of Wojnarowski's retirement before LeBron James has led to a wave of comical and lighthearted comments online. NBA fans have taken to social media, playfully suggesting that Wojnarowski's decision to retire now, just as James is set to continue his career, is a cosmic sign of the Lakers star's longevity. 

Woj hung it up before LeBron, and Bron's still chasing rings 😎

— Diana💓 (@h0tcryst) September 18, 2024

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Some fans have praised James for his remarkable durability and ability to remain active in the league well into his 22nd season.

And some people still want to act like LeBron isn't the 🐐

— Tre Graves (@TreGraves_) September 19, 2024

As no NBA player has played more than 22 seasons, there is growing speculation about whether LeBron James will retire after this season. Following the Lakers' early exit from the 2024 NBA Playoffs, where the Denver Nuggets defeated them in the first round, James addressed the rumors about his potential retirement. He took to social media to share his thoughts. 

"I've seen and heard a lot of reports about my future. I said it last night, and I'll say it again. I do not know yet, as I'm only thinking about spending time with my family and friends! When I know, after speaking with the family, my counsel as well as my representation about it, then you guys will know," James wrote.

The 39-year-old James is coming off a season averaging 25.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 8.3 assists per game.

also Read: VIDEO: Netflix Shows Brand New Scenes From Starting 5 Docuseries In Trailer Ft. LeBron James.

30 Teams in 30 Days: Lakers again pin hopes on LeBron James, Anthony Davis

All-NBA seasons from LeBron James and Anthony Davis weren't enough to lift the Lakers past the 1st round.

Offseason

Re-signing: Max Christie, LeBron James

Additions: Coach JJ Redick, Christian Koloko

Draft: Dalton Knecht (No. 17 pick), Bronny James (No. 55)

Departures: Coach Darvin Ham, Spencer Dinwiddie (to Mavs), Taurean Prince (to Bucks)

Unsigned Free Agents: Harry Giles III, Skylar Mays

Last season

Let's get to the positives: LeBron James and Anthony Davis were superb. Davis reaffirmed his status in the league as a high-impact player on both ends of the floor (24.7 points, 12.6 rebounds and 2.3 blocks per game). As for James, he brought bounce to his 21st season, leading the Lakers in scoring (25.7 ppg), assists (8.3 apg) and steals (1.3 apg). Both were All-NBA players.

The rest, however, were plagued with inconsistency and underperformance. Austin Reaves had moments, as did D'Angelo Russell. But once the playoffs began, the Lakers leaned too heavily on their two stars, which is never the recipe for postseason longevity, at least not in the loaded West. As a result, the Denver Nuggets sent the Lakers home for the second straight postseason.

Summer summary

The Lakers took the road lightly traveled in their search to replace Ham, who quickly fell out of favor both in the locker room and front office. At least he previously served as an assistant coach before getting the job. His replacement is a complete neophyte in every way.

JJ Redick played the game and, judging from his brief TV career, knows it, too. He just never coached it, and while that's not unprecedented (Doc Rivers and Pat Riley, among others), he's coming to a team that's win-now given that James turns 40 in December. Redick will have to overcome his inexperience to succeed.

Spotlight on

Bronny James will likely spend much of his rookie season in the NBA G League and player development whenever he's called up to the A-team. Second-round picks are rarely factors right away, especially on teams with postseason plans. But this is James' oldest son and he's here for a reason — to make history when he and his father first appear on the court together.

How far can the Lakers go?

This team has capable role players and is anxious to see what a healthy Jarred Vanderbilt and Gabe Vincent can do for a change. Improvements in 3-point shooting and defense will be paramount for the Lakers to avoid the Play-In Tournament.

Up next: Sacramento Kings | Previously: Phoenix Suns

30 Teams in 30 Days: Complete schedule

* * *

Shaun Powell has covered the NBA for more than 25 years. You can e-mail him here, find his archive here and follow him on X.

The views on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of the NBA, its clubs or Warner Bros. Discovery.

Video: LeBron James, Jayson Tatum Among NBA Stars in 'Starting 5' Trailer for Netflix

Maddie Meyer/Getty Images

NBA fans are anxiously awaiting the release of the upcoming Starting 5 documentary series on Netflix, and they received a first taste on Tuesday.

Netflix released the trailer for Starting 5 ahead of the Oct. 9 release date featuring NBA stars LeBron James, Jayson Tatum, Jimmy Butler, Anthony Edwards and Domantas Sabonis:

The trailer showed how in-depth the documentary series will go to show different sides of some of the NBA's biggest stars. There were clips of interviews with the players' families and loved ones. James' daughter Zhuri, his youngest child, even made an appearance while speaking about her legendary father.

Netflix unveiled Starting 5 as the latest installment to its long list of acclaimed sports series last month, revealing that the 10-part show will provide fans with a behind-the-scenes look at the 2023-24 season from each player's perspective.

"The series captures their battles on and off the court as they chase greatness, push through injuries, and balance the demands of family and legacy," a release stated.

Fans will enjoy watching what James went through to stay healthy in his 21st season in the NBA as well as how Edwards handled his rise to superstardom after he established himself as one of the future faces of the league. Butler and Sabonis navigated up-and-down seasons with their respective teams, while Tatum helped lead the Boston Celtics to the 2024 NBA championship.

Starting 5 will look to achieve the same success as Netflix's other sports programming like Quarterback, Formula 1: Drive to Survive, Simone Biles Rising, Full Swing and more.

NBA insider reveals that tension between LeBron, Curry over GOAT debate ‘was real’

Stephen Curry and LeBron James might have seemed like the best of friends back in July when they conquered a gold medal with Team USA during these past 2024 Paris Olympics, but this wasn't always the case. Moreover, a certain NBA insider recently talked about the time that both players' camps were involved in a heated debate over who was the GOAT. 

Sam Amick of The Athletic reminded us about this time in NBA history. "We were at all those Finals where I don't care what LeBron says now," he recalled. "It's not a matter of them having animosity toward one another, but they were rivals.

"Their camps didn't always love the way that the other player was talked about. LeBron's people did not love it when people started calling Steph the best player in the world. There was a tension that was real."

Nowadays, there is no doubt that they are both future Hall of Famer that helped define this basketball generation. However, even though both superstars share four NBA championships, only LeBron finds himself today in the "greatest of all time" discussions, involving Michael Jordan.

Today, as friends, James has opened up about their relationship. "LeBron versus Steph, they should never smile against each other on the court," the King told USA Today. "They should hate each other. We get it. We understand that a lot of y'all maybe grew up in a (Larry) Bird-Magic (Johnson) era and they shouldn't like each other.

"But I'm also old enough to know that Isiah (Thomas) and Magic hugged each and kissed each other on the floor too because it was just mutual respect. You know what I'm saying?"

LeBron also mentioned how rivals used to deal with each other in the past. "I'm also old enough to know that they say Michael (Jordan) never talked to any of his opponents, but I'm also smart enough to know that him and Charles (Barkley) had a lot of conversations during the '93 Finals and also played golf once against each other," the Lakers star expressed.

The Golden State icon recently said he was looking forward to moments with LeBron, whether they are 'teammates or not'

After winning gold over the summer, Curry spoke with Natasha Dye of People, reflecting on the significance of playing alongside James rather than against him. "All the battles we've had on the court and the back and forth, the fact that we actually got to be teammates, not just in any game like an All-Star Game or whatever, but in high-stakes basketball with a lot on the line.

"I think there's a deepened respect and friendship there," expressed the Warriors icon. This experience, he noted, was different from any All-Star game, as it involved high stakes and a shared goal.

Curry further expressed his desire for more opportunities to share the court with James, whether as teammates or rivals. "Hopefully, there will be more experiences in the future, even if we're teammates or not," he added. "We still have to compete against each other until it's all over."

For many NBA fans, the idea of Curry and James teaming up on an NBA roster is tantalizing, though it remains unlikely. Despite this, the idea has fueled plenty of speculation, especially as both players approach the latter stages of their careers.

LeBron James ranked last in one key NBA offensive statistic last season

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LeBron James’ Long-Term Trainer Takes Credit For Lakers Superstar’s “Consistency”

At 39, LeBron James remains one of the best players in the NBA. His longevity is beyond comprehension and is arguably his most impressive trait. It's a direct result of one of the most important attributes that Mike Mancias developed in him since he was a teenager.

During an appearance on the High Performance podcast, host Jake Humphrey asked the trainer what was the greatest lesson he taught James in their near-two-decade-long relationship. He replied that he harped on about the value of consistency to the Lakers superstar, who rose to the challenge and made it his second nature. Mancias said,

"The greatest lesson that I have taught him I believe is just consistency, being consistent. I actually think we've taught each other because we challenge each other each and every day. I'm not going to back down, he's not going to back down. What has happened here is we've both become uber-consistent."

He then outlined the importance of consistency in team sports and explained how a superstar like James can improve the team with his relentless desire to stay on top. The trainer said,

"When you are in a team setting, others know you're going to be there for them as well. If you're consistent with your behavior if you are consistent with your attitude, with your performance then your teammates don't have to question what you're going to bring the table that particular day."

James has spent 20 years playing at an All-NBA level, an unprecedented feat, for which he credits Mancias. 

In a post-game interview in April 2023, the Lakers superstar was asked about his thoughts on his longevity as he neared the end of his 20th season in the NBA. The four-time MVP used the opportunity to give props to Mancias. James said,

"There's no way I'd be playing 20 seasons without him. It's literally that simple. There's no way I'd be able to still be playing at this level without him. I mean, he's that essential to my game, to my performance, to everything that I do. To my mental. So, there's no way. I mean, I could have got 7-to-12 years of this. But 20? There's no way without him."

Mancias has been by the veteran forward's side throughout his NBA career, which seemingly has no end in sight. Over two decades later, James remains as hungry as ever to play at the top level, evidenced by his heroics in the 2024 Paris Olympics.

He's now gearing up for his 22nd season in the NBA and his trainer will push him as much, if not more than he did in Year 1.

LeBron James nominated for National High School Football Hall of Fame with local stars

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NBA Fans Had All Sorts Of Things To Say After Learning That LeBron James Was The Worst Midrange Shooter Last Season

NBA Fans Had All Sorts Of Things To Say After Learning That LeBron James Was The Worst Midrange Shooter Last Season Home » NBA » NBA Fans Had All Sorts Of Things To Say After Learning That LeBron James Was The Worst Midrange Shooter Last Season

LeBron James’ High School Coach Recalls College Scouts Aggressively Recruiting the Ohio Talent Until Disappointment

LeBron James remains the most highly sough-after high school prospect in basketball history. College scouts used to line up for miles on end to try to recruit the Akron native. Keith Dambrot, who coached James during his first two years at St. Vincent-St Mary High School, saw first-hand how college coaches were desperate to get their hands on the rare talent.

During a live show at LBJ's home town of Akron, Dambrot joined ESPN's The Hoops Collective Podcast to discuss the heavy interest in James during his high school years. The 65-year-old became St. Vincent-St. Mary High School basketball team's head coach in 1998.

James joined the program just a year after the start of his high school coaching career. Dambrot was immediately mesmerized by the transcendental talent of a teenage LBJ. 

He recalled that during a conversation with former Cincinnati Bearcats coach Bob Huggins, he called Lebron the best-ever prospect he had seen in his coaching career. 

Huggins apparently downplayed the declaration at first. The legendary coach believed Dambrot's vision was clouded after becoming a high-school coach. Dambrot recounted,

"I was never really a high school coach before I came here. I called guys like Bob Huggins and I said, 'Bob I think I got one of the best players.' He said, 'Well best players, what in Ohio?" I said, 'No, best player I have ever seen'… He says, 'You sound like a high school coach.'"

However, Huggins would eventually join the long line of coaches who wanted James on their squad. Dambrot recollected that the college coach did all in all his power to ensure that James became a part of the Bearcats squad.

But like most college scouts and coaches, by LBJ's sophomore year, Huggins realized that James would skip college and enter the NBA straight from high school. 

"They recruited him pretty hard until they figured out by his sophomore year, that wasn't really gonna happen," Dambrot added.

The yearning to have a talent like LeBron James on the college roster was understandable. LBJ showed unparalleled maturity as a high-schooler and had the talent to carry a team on his back.

He could have brought historical transformation for many college programs, including Huggins' Bearcats. However, James was self-assured that he would transition smoothly from high school to the NBA.

His decision turned out to be for the best and within a few years after leaving high school, James became an MVP-level player in the league.

Lakers' Jeanie Buss: LeBron James 'Might Be' NBA's GOAT After Team USA Gold Medal

Tom Weller/VOIGT/GettyImages

After leading Team USA to a gold medal at the Paris Olympics this summer, LeBron James earned some high praise from Los Angeles Lakers governor Jeanie Buss.

While discussing the upcoming Lakers season with Chuck Schilken of the L.A. Times, Buss said she believes James' Olympic performance solidifies his case as the NBA's GOAT.

"I'm excited to see what our new coach, JJ Redick, has in store. It's definitely gonna be an interesting season for sure," Buss said. "I mean, LeBron, the way he played at the Olympics? He might be the greatest of all time."

James averaged 14.2 points, 6.8 rebounds and 8.5 assists to help lead Team USA to its fifth straight men's basketball gold medal. It's his third career Olympic gold medal and fourth overall.

The four-time NBA champion is set to enter the 22nd season of his legendary career and he will turn 40 years old in December. Still, James has shown no signs of slowing down and hopes to help put the Lakers in a position to compete for an NBA title. Buss said she expects no less.

"He consistently delivers. He puts in the work. He's not only a worldwide brand, but he is our leader. He's the captain of our team and he sets the tone, sets the pace by putting in the hard work," Buss said. "Nobody can complain about the work if you see somebody with his résumé and his longevity of career, nobody can complain about having to practice if he's willing to do it. And he does. ... In terms of my expectations for the team, I can sit here and tell you — Lakers always play for a championship, as we know, between Kobe Bryant and Magic Johnson and Phil Jackson and Pat Riley and Dr. Buss. That's who we are"

The Lakers retained most of their core from last year while adding some youth with 2024 first-round pick Dalton Knecht and second-round pick Bronny James, the 20-time All-Star's son.

As James enters the twilight of his career, he's hoping to end on a high note, and a fifth championship would be the perfect way to ride off into the sunset.

Kevin Durant Names Ideal NBA 2K25 Starting 5 Featuring LeBron James, Luka Dončić

Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images

Best of luck defeating Kevin Durant in NBA 2K25 if he gets to play with his ideal starting lineup.

In a video for Boardroom, Durant revealed he would surround himself with Luka Dončić, LeBron James, Joel Embiid and Klay Thompson when making a starting lineup to use in the video game.

He placed an emphasis on shooting with the Thompson and even Embiid selections and said he picked the Philadelphia 76ers star at center "because Embiid shoots the three better than [Nikola] Jokić in the game."

Durant is quite familiar with playing alongside some of those playmakers, as he was teammates with Thompson on the Golden State Warriors and helped Team USA bring home the gold medal in the 2024 Paris Olympics with James and Embiid.

Having that many stars on the court makes perimeter shooting all the more important because defenses collapse and send double teams at times, and Durant's starting five isn't going to miss a lot of open looks.

That is especially the case in a video game.

LeBron James Reacts to Dwyane Wade Getting Statue at Heat's Kaseya Center in IG Story

Jim Poorten/NBAE via Getty Images

Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James is excited to see Dwyane Wade's Miami Heat career honored with a statue outside Kaseya Center.

James shared the Heat's announcement of the statue on his Instagram story on Thursday night.

The Heat are unveiling the statue of Wade on Sunday, Oct. 27, before celebrating the honor with a "statue night" during a game against the Detroit Pistons on Monday, Oct. 28.

After being drafted by the Heat with the No. 5 pick in 2003, Wade was named Finals MVP when he helped bring the franchise's first title to Miami in 2006.

James and Wade were later teammates for four seasons with the Heat, helping the team reach four NBA Finals and win back-to-back titles in 2012 and 2013.

Following brief stints with the Chicago Bulls and Cleveland Cavaliers, Wade returned to the Heat before retiring following the 2018-19 season as a career 22.0 point-per-game player.

His jersey was retired by the Heat in 2020, an accomplishment James celebrated with a video tribute to his former teammate.

There's a chance James could attend the unveiling of the statue, which takes place between Los Angeles games this fall, although the timing would be tight. He and the Lakers are scheduled to be in Phoenix for a road game against the Suns the following night.

Longtime NBA Wing Explains Why Lakers' LeBron James is His GOAT

LeBron James vs. Michael Jordan is the most common debate in the NBA. Whether you're a player, an analyst, or a fan, you have an opinion on which of these fantastic athletes is the GOAT.

Recently, longtime NBA wing and former NBA Slam Dunk Contest winner Terrence Ross weighed in on the debate.

During a live stream on Twitch, Ross was asked who he thought deserved Olympics MVP: James or Stephen Curry? For Ross, there was no question.

"LeBron was the best player in the entire Olympics, bro," Ross said. "Curry did his thing in the last two games, he absolutely shot the piss out of the ball, like he's known to do. LeBron literally put the team on his back and led them all the way there [the gold]. I mean, without LeBron, Curry might not even get those shots off."

Ross then took the question even further, claiming that James' longevity and consistency put him closer to GOAT status than Jordan.

"LeBron is literally, to me now, he's the GOAT," Ross said. "I don't know how you can put Jordan over him. If Jordan would have done what he was doing for 20 years, 'I'm like yeah. Like, LeBron has a long way to go'."

"The truth of the matter is he played basketball twice, returned twice. Got a three-peat on his first return, and the second time he came back he was not the same player.

"LeBron has literally been on a peak his entire career," Ross continued. "I mean, he just gets older, but he still is as effective as he's always been."

Ross isn't wrong. James is heading into his 22nd consecutive season in the NBA. He claimed Rookie of the Year his freshman season and proceeded to be named to the All-Star team for 20 years in a row.

Additionally, Ross believes that the competition James has been playing against is much more impressive than what Jordan faced.

"I mean, in the level of competition he's doing it against is, to me, more impressive than the competition that Jordan won against, if we're gonna be honest about it," Ross concluded.

In the end, it cannot be denied that both players have made major contributions to the game of basketball. James and Jordan should both be celebrated for everything they have accomplished.

More Lakers: Lakers Coach JJ Redick Weighs in on Potential LeBron James, Anthony Davis Fatigue After Olympics

LeBron James Reveals Mount Rushmore of NFL Quarterbacks

The NFL season is upon us, and although we are not through Week 1 yet, it has not disappointed us. The NFL season brings everyone together, even those who play other professional sports in the league.

More news: Netflix Set To Release New NBA Series Following Multiple 2023-24 All-Stars

Football is a global sport, and arguably, no one is more plugged in than NBA legend and Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James. James is as plugged in as anyone. He loves the game of football, dating back to his gridiron days when he played at St. Vincent St. Mary High School.

James is no stranger to sharing his football advice with fans, and he did so once again, dropping his Mount Rushmore of NFL quarterbacks. The 39-year-old shared the controversial list, per Draft Kings.

LeBron James attends the NFC Divisional Round playoff game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Los Angeles Rams at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on January 12, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. James gives his Mount... LeBron James attends the NFC Divisional Round playoff game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Los Angeles Rams at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on January 12, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. James gives his Mount Rushmore of NFL quarterbacks. More Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images

The list includes New England Patriots legend Tom Brady, Kansas City Chiefs reigning Super Bowl champion Patrick Mahomes, San Francisco 49ers icon Joe Montana, and then a tie between both John Elway of the Denver Broncos and Peyton Manning of the Indianapolis Colts and Broncos.

Although Mahomes in any Mt. Rushmore list may seem a bit premature, he is on the Hall of Fame/ G.O.A.T (Greatest Of All Time) trajectory. In his first seven NFL seasons, Mahomes has already been named a six-time Pro Bowler, two-time All-Pro, three-time Super Bowl champion, two-time AP MVP, and three-time Super Bowl MVP.

If Mahomes isn't there, he is close to it with much ahead of him in his career.

The other four James mentioned are undeniable. Brady is the G.O.A.T. of football, as his resume is unmatched: seven Super Bowl championships, three-time MVP, and member of the All-2000s and All-2010s Hall of Fame teams.

Manning, Elway, and Montana are all great in their own right, as they are all Hall of Famers and have combined for 163,966 passing yards, 1,112 touchdowns, eight Super Bowl titles, and eight MVPs.

James knows a thing or two about the NFL, and he sowed that with his list of the top NFL quarterbacks of all time. While James is focused on the NFL season, the NBA season is slowly approaching, and it will be his 22nd.

Although James is entering his age-40 season, he is still at the top of his game and will look to lead the Lakers back to the top. It may be a steep hill to climb, but you could never count him out with James as the leader.

More news: A Deleted Angel Reese Tweet Threw Shade at Lakers Star LeBron James

NBA Rumors: Cedi Osman Wasn't Offered Lakers Contract Before Signing Deal in Europe

Chris Nicoll/NBAE via Getty Images

Rumors that the Los Angeles Lakers extended a training camp invite to seven-year NBA veteran Cedi Osman, who signed a one-year deal with reigning EuroLeague champion Panathinaikos on Saturday, are reportedly unfounded, per longtime NBA insider Marc Stein.

"It has been reported in Europe that Turkish swingman Cedi Osman turned down a training camp invite from the Lakers before signing with Panathinaikos in Greece, but sources close to the situation told The Stein Line that no such offer was extended by L.A. despite LeBron James' well-known fondness for Osman dating to their days as Cavaliers teammates.

"The Lakers have 15 guaranteed contracts and are less than $50,000 away from crossing into second apron luxury tax territory, so there would be no reasonable pathway to add Osman to the team even had he come to camp and played well. Sources say that the 29-year-old, who played in San Antonio last season, signed a one-year deal with Panathinaikos in hopes that he can play his way back to the NBA next season."

The 29-year-old Osman has played seven NBA seasons. He began his career with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2017 before the team dealt him to the Spurs in a three-team trade that also involved the Miami Heat.

Last year, Osman averaged 6.8 points on 47.9 percent shooting (38.9 percent from three) in 17.6 minutes per game. He played in 72 games and started three.

Osman became a free agent after the season and ended up signing a one-year deal with the Greek professional club, which also notably agreed to a two-year deal this offseason with ex-NBA wing Evan Fournier.

So Osman isn't a Laker, but as Stein noted, it appears that he's hoping to return to the league down the road. Osman is a good shooter who should have plenty left in the tank when he becomes available again for NBA teams to pursue next offseason. If there's any interest on the Lakers' end, perhaps it could be realized down the road.

For now, though, L.A. is set for 2024-25 as the team readies for its Oct. 22 season opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves and hopes to bounce back from a first-round playoff exit last year.

LeBron James’ Ex-Teammate Rejected Lakers Training Camp Invite

Getty Cedi Osman

The Los Angeles Lakers had interest in one of LeBron James' former teammates, but the feeling wasn't mutual. Cedi Osman, who played with James on the Cleveland Cavaliers, did not want to participate in Lakers' training camp.

Eurohoops' Nikola Miloradovic revealed the full details of why Osman turned the Lakers down.

"(Osman) also received interest from the Los Angeles Lakers, which invited him for a training camp; however, due to the lack of guarantees about making it to the season roster, he decided to refuse and come back to Europe," Miloradovic wrote in a September 7 story.

Instead of attending any team's training camp, Osman will go overseas to resume his professional basketball career. While being courted by Real Madrid, Osman will play for Panathinaikos Athens, as Eurohoops also confirmed.

This doesn't necessarily mean Osman's NBA career is dead, but rather that it has been put on hiatus for the time being. Osman played in the NBA from 2017 to 2024 with the Cavaliers and San Antonio Spurs.

Cedi Osman Played With LeBron James in Cleveland

Osman is familiar with James' game as a basketball player since the two were teammates during the latter's last season in Cleveland. The two of them shared the floor during the 2017-18 season.

This coincided with Osman's rookie season, during which he played 61 games but didn't get much playing time. In 11 minutes a game, Osman averaged 3.9 points, two rebounds, and 0.7 assists. He also shot 48.4% from the field and 36.8% from three. He went on to appear in 14 of the Cavaliers' playoff games, though his role only decreased even more.

Since leaving the Cavaliers for the Lakers, a few of James' former teammates have joined him in LA, including JR Smith, Tristan Thompson, and Isaiah Thomas. None of them had the same role with the Lakers that they did with the Cavaliers years prior, but LeBron wanted to team up with them again.

Had he joined the Lakers, Osman may have brought some familiarity with James but wanted a secure spot on the roster that the Lakers couldn't promise.

Lakers Named Among Top Landing Spots for Cedi Osman

Before Osman passed on the Lakers training camp invite, Bleacher Report's Dan Favale explained why the Lakers were the top landing spot for him. He started by explaining why Osman's appeal stems from his efficiency, then explained why the Lakers could use him.

"Over the past three seasons, the 29-year-old is downing more than 57 percent of his twos and 37 percent of his threes. Just seven other players have hit those marks while also draining as many treys as Osman (330): Duncan Robinson, Corey Kispert, Trey Murphy, Sam Hauser, Al Horford, Michael Porter Jr., and Kevin Durant.

"Remove the marquee names from that list, and you're still looking at a couple of useful NBA players. Osman is worth a roster spot for rotations in need of shot-making from the wing positions," Favale wrote on August 30. "Enter the Los Angeles Lakers. Exactly none of their wings or combo forwards are considered knockdown shooters. Osman would upgrade their spacing at minimum, and his willingness to move without the ball should fit cleanly within head coach JJ Redick's (presumed) offensive tenets."

The Lakers agreed with this notion, but Osman did not want to compete for a roster spot. Now, the Lakers must look at other free agents for training camp invites.

LeBron James had a message to send to his haters

LeBron James, despite his monumental success on the court, has often faced criticism throughout his career.

Entering his 22nd NBA season with four championships and three Olympic gold medals, some detractors still attribute his achievements to his physical dominance rather than his basketball skill set.

Lebron James trash talks and fights with a fan

Recently, James addressed these ongoing critiques. A fan shared a video compilation of James' scoring highlights from the 2015 NBA playoffs, during his time with the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Seizing the moment to respond to his critics, LeBron reposted the video on his Instagram story, adding a sharp caption aimed at those who claim he "just ran over people" throughout his career.

The post was a reminder that James' success stems from a full arsenal of basketball skills, not just his size and strength.

Throughout his career, LeBron has faced claims that his dominance comes from his physicality, but his versatility as a shooter, passer, and defender has cemented his place as one of the greatest players of all time.

His response highlights the ongoing battle to prove that his talents go far beyond mere athleticism.

In a related story, fellow NBA superstar Stephen Curry reflected on his time playing alongside LeBron during Team USA's 2024 Paris Olympics run.

Curry, appearing on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, spoke about their unexpected camaraderie, especially given their history of on-court rivalry.

Curry fondly recalled how James' encouragement during a critical game boosted his confidence at a pivotal moment.

"It caught me off guard because I had to get used to liking that guy after all our battles," Curry admitted, showing how their Olympic experience changed their dynamic.

James went on to win the MVP award for the tournament, although some fans believed Curry was equally deserving.

While the debate over MVP honors lingered, both players cherished their Olympic success, likely marking their final international appearance together.

As LeBron continues his NBA journey, proving doubters wrong has become a hallmark of his storied career, further solidifying his legacy as a multifaceted and elite basketball icon.

Ronnie 2K boldly claims Michael Jordan is the GOAT over LeBron James

The Michael Jordan vs. LeBron James GOAT debate has led to plenty of arguments over the years. According to Ronnie 2K that title belongs to the Chicago Bulls legend.

"I mean he's the greatest of all-time, I'm saying it right now, there you go… Yes sir, without question Michael Jordan is the greatest player of all time," Ronnie 2K said on The Stephen A. Smith Show. "LeBron James might be the best player of all-time, but Michael Jordan is the greatest player of all-time. There's a difference between greatness and best."

So what does Ronnie 2K mean by his best vs. greatest comparison?

"The best player is the most athletically gifted at extending his career," Ronnie 2K said. "The greatest is you watched the guy play and there's no question in any era he would've been the greatest on the court."

Ronnie 2K is the face of the NBA 2K franchise. He claimed Jordan is the greatest player of all-time after Smith asked if Jordan would have ever received a 100 overall rating during his career.

In all reality, both Jordan and James probably could have received 100 overall ratings during the primes of their careers. Both players were unstoppable at the peak of their games. In fact, LeBron is still rated 95 overall at 39 years old, something that is truly incredible.

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The Jordan vs. James debate will continue for years to come. The fact of the matter is that the argument will not truly be valid until LeBron retires. Then in five years following his retirement, people should begin seriously having the argument. That would allow for recency bias to not impact the conversation.

However, the conversation will continue now. It. is a topic that always draws attention and leads to passionate debates.

So who do you think is the real NBA GOAT?

Video: Lakers' LeBron James Reveals Super Bowl 59 Picks Ahead of 2024 NFL Season

Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images

Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James revealed his picks for the participants in Super Bowl 59 on Thursday.

James predicted a matchup between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens, a rematch of Super Bowl 47. However, he was unable to choose a winner.

"I just want to see a great one," James explained. "I love NFL guys, I don't want to be on somebody's bad terms."

The Kansas City Chiefs will be attempting to win their third consecutive Super Bowl after defeating Baltimore in last season's AFC Championship Game, but James still believes that the Ravens can overcome Patrick Mahomes and secure a conference title.

"I'm not counting out Pat Mahomes just like you'd never count out Tom Brady, obviously," he said on Thursday. "But I just feel like this could be Baltimore's year."

The Ravens earned the No. 1 seed in the AFC entering the 2023 playoffs, finishing with a record of 13-4 while Lamar Jackson earned the second MVP award of his career. Baltimore lost some defensive starters in free agency such as linebacker Patrick Queen and safety Geno Stone, but the team also added four-time Pro Bowl running back Derrick Henry.

San Francisco has become a perennial contender under head coach Kyle Shanahan, making it to the NFC Championship Game in four of the past five seasons. The 49ers have also appeared in the Super Bowl twice with Shanahan patrolling the sidelines, including a narrow 25-22 overtime loss to the Chiefs on Feb. 11.

It's been a busy offseason for San Francisco, signing wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk to a four-year extension worth $120 million on Aug. 29. The 49ers also reworked the contract of All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams on Tuesday.

If both teams can build upon their respective 2023 seasons, James' prediction could end up coming to fruition.

JuJu Watkins Names LeBron James as Inspiration, Impressed by Lakers Star’s Longevity

LeBron James' incredible journey from basketball's boy wonder to one of the best ever is an aspirational tale for millions. Among them is USC superstar JuJu Watkins, a player touted to be as transcendent as the four-time NBA champion.

During an appearance on LSU star Flau'jae Johnson's Best of Both Worlds podcast, the duo spoke about the players they looked up to growing up as they chased their basketball dreams. For Watkins, it was, and still is, James. She spoke about his longevity and marveled that he's still among the best players in the game. She said,

"Learning about [LeBron's] story, to literally being the greatest and he's still going. Just to hear about his story is really inspiring… "He's been [in the NBA] since he was 18 right? And he's 39 I think… To play with your son is crazy."

The four-time NBA champion is entering his 22nd season and will join Vince Carter as the only other player to achieve that feat. But unlike the former Raptors star, the veteran forward is still an All-NBA caliber player and is expected to carry the Lakers' title hopes on his shoulder in his age-40 season.

As James did in high school, Watkins has showcased in her freshman season with USC that she has the potential to be one of the greatest players of her sport. She broke USC legend Cheryl Miller's single-season scoring record in her first year in college basketball and is expected to shatter every record in the next three years before heading to the WNBA.

She turned the nation's head with her 51-point performance against Stanford, setting a new record for most points in a game by a USC star. If Caitlin Clark is WNBA's Michael Jordan and turns the league into a global sensation, Watkins could be its James and not only help maintain its stature but make it bigger.

The USC superstar is the most exciting teenager in basketball. Clark's entry into the league has left a vacuum in women's college basketball. If Watkins can replicate her exploits from her freshman year, or perhaps even take a step forward in her sophomore season, she could be the face of the sport for the next three years.

How Much Is LeBron James’ Car Collection Worth? A Look At The Los Angeles Lakers Star’s Garage

LeBron James and Savannah James (Images Credit: X)

The Los Angeles Lakers superstar, LeBron James, is the first active NBA player and the second basketball star after Michael Jordan to become a billionaire. Considering his substantial wealth, it's hardly surprising that the four-time NBA champion owns a $4.5 million car collection.

LeBron James is regarded as one of the greatest ever to play the game and is often compared with the legendary Michael Jordan and the late Kobe Bryant. Like the two legends, the 39-year-old forward has built a lasting legacy, winning the championship with three teams. In 2023, the record 20-time All-Star surpassed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to become the NBA's all-time scoring leader.

In the 2024-25 season, LeBron will earn a base salary of $48.7 million. Apart from reaching milestones and breaking records, the four-time NBA MVP is a connoisseur of luxury cars. Take a look at NBA star LeBron James' incredible $4.5 car collection.

Porsche Porsche 918 Spyder (Image Credit: Porsche)

King James owns two Porsche cars – the 918 Spyder and the 911 Turbo S Cabriolet. The 2020 Spyder, equipped with a 4.6-liter V8 engine and two electric motors, can go from 0 to 60 in 2.5 seconds. This is the most expensive car in LeBron's collection, worth over $1 million.

On the other hand, the Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet is powered by a 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six engine. With a maximum speed of 205 mph, the car can go from 0 to 60 in about 2.7 seconds.

Also Read: Top 5 NBA Teammates Who Never Got Along With Each Other: Ft. Barkley-Pippen and LeBron-Westbrook

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Lamborghini Aventador Roadster LeBron James' Lamborghini (Image Credit: X)

The Lamborghini Aventador Roadster is the second-most expensive car in King James' collection. Equipped with a 6.5-liter V12 naturally aspirated engine, the supercar produces  730 horsepower and 509 lb-ft of torque. Priced at $500,000 to $550,000, the Lamborghini has a top speed of 217 mph and can go 0 to 60 mph in about 3 seconds.

Rolls Royce Phantom Rolls-Royce Phantom (Image Credit: Rolls-Royce)

LeBron James' Rolls-Royce Phantom, powered by a 6.75-liter V12 twin-turbocharged engine, is worth $450,000 to $500,000. While it is designed for luxury over high-speed performance, the Phantom has a top speed of 155 mph. Legendary NBA center Shaquille O'Neal gifted this car to his former Cavaliers teammate on his 25th birthday. Shaq played with James for the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2009-10 season.

Mercedes-Maybach

The four-time NBA MVP has two Mercedes-Maybach cars, the 57S and the S650. The 57S is among the most expensive cars in LeBron's collection, worth around $420,000. Equipped with a 6.0L Twin-turbo V12 engine, the luxury sedan has a top speed of 194 mph.

Mercedes-Maybach 57s (Image Credit: Mercedes)

On the other hand, the S650's 6.0-liter bi-turbocharged V12 engine produces around 621 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. The NBA legend has the 2018 model of this luxurious sedan, which has a seven-gear system.

Ferrari

Alongside the Porsches and Mercedes-Maybachs, the Lakers forward owns three Ferraris: an F430 Spider, a 458 Italia Spider, and a 599 GTB Fiorano. James bought the 599 GTB Fiorano, powered by a 6.0L Naturally Aspirated V12 engine, on his 25th birthday. It is the most expensive Ferrari in his collection, worth around $310,000.

LeBron James (Image Credit: X)

LeBron also has 458 Italia Spider, which costs around $257,000 and features a 4.5-liter V8 engine. The F430 Spider is the Lakers star's first Ferrari, costing him over $200,000. LeBron bought it in 2008 following his spectacular season with the Cavaliers.

Chevrolet Camaro SS

Powered by a 6.2-liter V8 engine producing 455 horsepower, it can go from 0 to 60 in 4.2 seconds. The 2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS is the cheapest car in the four-time NBA Finals MVP's incredible collection, priced at around $34,000.

Also Read: Stephen Curry Expresses His True Feelings About Playing Again In The Future With LeBron James

What Is LeBron James' Net Worth?

According to Forbes, LeBron is ranked 2494th globally and has a net worth of $1.2 billion. The NBA superstar has earned over $500 million in total salary from his NBA teams, Cleveland, Miami, and Los Angeles. The Lakers star forward also co-owns a production company, SpringHill Entertainment, with his business partner Maverick Carter. They have also invested in Fenway Sports Group, which owns the Liverpool Football Club.

LeBron James (Image Credits: Getty Images)

The Lakers forward has dealt with popular brands like Nike and Pepsi, amassing nearly $900 million. In addition to the high-end vehicles, LeBron owns a Bentley Continental GT worth $231,800, a Hummer H2, a Dodge Challenger SRT8 392, and a Kia K900. However, the NBA legend prefers to fly with his family in a private jet, ensuring comfort and convenience.

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Also Read: Top 5 NBA Stars Who Have Starred In Hollywood Movies: Ft. Michael Jordan And LeBron James

Nike Officially Unveils LeBron James’ First Training Shoe

More from Footwear News

Nike and LeBron James are branching out from basketball with the introduction of his first training shoe.

The Nike LeBron TR1, short for "Trainer 1," will release in mid-September with an emphasis on both versatile performance and street appeal. An ergonomic and lightweight design sees the sneaker do without a strobel, the lowermost portion of most shoes' upper, to bring the wearer closer to the responsive foam cushioning. Insights from the Nike Sports Research Lab were then used to inform an inverted waffle pattern on the outsole for targeted traction both indoors and outdoors.

To accommodate feet swelling during training, the TR1 also features a wide last and a glove-like bootie construction. A wrap extending from the midsole well up onto the upper offers both containment and the defining aesthetic for the sneaker, which James specifically sought to be stylish and easily worn all day.

In addition to his first training shoe, the newest basketball model from his signature line will likely launch this fall. James wore the Nike LeBron 22 throughout the Olympics, including in an all-gold colorway for Team USA's gold medal-clinching game against France. While watching the American women's team, James also debuted the Nike ReactX Rejuven8 slides.

Nike has confirmed four colorways for the LeBron TR1 to release from September through November. The Nike LeBron TR1 will make its debut September 19 in a grey and "Volt" green "Dunk Man" colorway that's been a mainstay of James' signature sneakers. A grey and black "Zero Dark 30" variant will release on October 10, followed by the Prince-inspired "Purple Rain" edition October 23. The final confirmed drop will be a burnt orange, white and blue "Better With Age" edition coming November 11.

Pricing will be set at $130 for all four colorways.

Nike LeBron TR1 "Dunk Man"

Nike LeBron TR1 Dunk Man

Nike LeBron TR1 "Zero Dark 30"

Nike LeBron TR1 Zero Dark 30

Nike LeBron TR1 "Purple Rain"

Nike LeBron TR1 Purple Rain

Nike LeBron TR1 "Better With Age"

Nike LeBron TR1 Better With Age

About the Author:

Ian Servantes is a Senior News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He's previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that "ball is life" and doesn't fuss over his kicks getting dirty.

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Lakers Superstar LeBron James Posts A Heartfelt Message For Son Bronny James Ahead Of His Debut NBA Season

LeBron James and Bronny James (Image Credit: Getty Images)

LeBron James has always been vocal about supporting his elder son, Bronny James, especially as the latter faces criticism in his journey to the NBA. When the Los Angeles Lakers selected Bronny as the No. 55 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, many fans were quick to speculate that LeBron's influence played a significant role in his son's entry into the league. This led to trolling and skepticism about Bronny's capabilities as a player.

However, LeBron, being a proud father, did not hesitate to defend his son publicly. LeBron posted a video of Bronny's training on his Instagram account, sending a powerful message aimed at the critics. He made it clear that he fully believes in Bronny's potential and work ethic.

"Keep working, kid, and (expletive) all the hate/noise! You know your personal legend! THEY DON'T KNOW YOU!" LeBron wrote in the caption.

LeBron has long expressed his desire to play alongside his son in the NBA. Despite this dream, Bronny's performance during the Summer League was not as strong as many had hoped. Hence, his place on the Lakers' main roster for the upcoming season remains uncertain. 

LeBron James is entering his 22nd season in the league. Throughout his career, James established and tarnished several records. The Los Angeles Lakers' star is on the verge of establishing another record in his twilight.

The Los Angeles Lakers star is just 1,364 points away from becoming the first player in NBA history to reach 50,000 total career points, including regular season and playoff games.

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Last season, James added 1,984 points to his already stellar career, bringing his total to 48,636 points. This includes 40,474 points from regular season games and 8,162 points from the postseason. 

The Lakers will begin their 2024-2025 NBA season with a highly anticipated Opening Night matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves on October 22. All eyes will be on LeBron as he inches closer to making history again.

Also Read: LeBron James Couldn't Contain His Excitement To Hit The Court With Son Bronny During Lakers Training Camp This Month.

LeBron James Hilariously Reacts To A Jaw-Dropping Record That Highlights His Dominance On The Court

LeBron James (Image Source: Getty Images)

LeBron James has repeatedly shown that there is no longer any room for questioning his brilliance. He is astounded by his abilities on the basketball floor. James has been a force to reckon with whenever the team requires it.

The Bleacher Report X account revealed on Tuesday that 'The King' currently has 14 more 50-point performances in his illustrious career than single-digit games (8). James responded to the information with a slew of amusing emojis in a very direct manner.

With 40,474 points in 1,492 regular-season games, the 39-year-old superstar is the all-time greatest scorer in the NBA after 21 years of play. He will increase that number because he will be playing for the Los Angeles Lakers again next season.

On March 11, 2022, LeBron James scored fifty points in the LA Lakers' 122-109 victory over the Washington Wizards at home. In addition to his 50 points on 18 of 25 and 6 of 9 three-point shooting, he also had seven rebounds and six assists. In 2005, while playing for the Cleveland Cavaliers, he scored 56 points to become the first player to exceed the 50-point mark.

Jovan Buha, a Lakers insider, described one scenario in which there would be no acceptable in-season transactions while talking about the possibility that the Lakers' upcoming season would be a write-off.

Buha said, "The one caveat would be they're the No. 1 or 2 seed in the West, they're on a 60-win pace, they're having an incredible season, D-Lo's balling out, Austin has taken a step, Max has taken a step off the bench, they've figured out the right starting combination and everything's humming, that's the one caveat."

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According to Buha, that would include JJ Redick making the best rotational changes and LA's younger players, such as Austin Reaves and Max Christie, making significant progress. Buha would appreciate the team's standing ovation if those events took place and the Lakers suddenly jumped to the top of the Western Conference rankings.

Also Read: Former NBA Guard Reveals How Tough It Was To Play Against LeBron James In The 7th Grade

Video of LeBron James fighting and trash talking with a fan resurface in the dark web

Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James speaks to a fan during an NBA basketball gameAP

As the next NBA season approaches, LeBron James will once again be the oldest player in the league, marking his second consecutive year holding that title. LeBron, who will enter his 22nd NBA season at age 39 and finish it at 40, will rank among the top 25 oldest players in league history. With one more year left on his contract after this season- a 2-year, $101,355,998 deal with the Los Angeles Lakers, fully guaranteed-LeBron could find himself in the top 10 oldest players ever by the end of the next season. Given his remarkable physical condition and depending on how he performs over these two years alongside his son Bronny James, LeBron might continue playing until he's 43 or 44, potentially mirroring Tom Brady's longevity in the NFL.

LeBron's Leaked Audio Incident

For players like LeBron, who are constantly in the spotlight and achieve numerous milestones, it's common to face heckling from fans, especially during away games. This happened a few years ago at the United Center in Chicago, home of the Bulls, when LeBron was still with the Cleveland Cavaliers. As he was leaving the game, a fan near the bench yelled, "When are you gonna stop crying?" LeBron shot back with, "Shut up, you got a big a** forehead." The exchange continued for a while, with both parties trading words.

It's unusual to see LeBron respond like this, though it's understandable that he wouldn't want to stay silent when insulted or provoked. Fans often get surprised when players clap back, but it seems unwise to pay for a ticket just to confront a player, especially someone like LeBron, who is the main attraction in most games. The incident likely occurred during a tough down moment for LeBron and the Cavaliers, as they were rarely losing during his second stint in Cleveland. The Cavs were the team to beat in the East, consistently making it to the Finals, all four years Lebron was there, and securing their first-ever championship by becoming the only team to overcome a 1-3 deficit in Finals history.

LeBron and the Lakers Next Season

LeBron has just secured his fourth Olympic medal-his third gold-and now, alongside the Lakers and his son Bronny James, he aims to return to the top of the NBA. However, the Western Conference is more competitive than ever, with a mix of talented young players and seasoned veterans who are future Hall of Famers but still playing. As the new season draws near, the Lakers have managed to retain their core lineup, including LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and D'Angelo Russell, along with key rotation players like Austin Reaves, Cam Reddish, and Rui Hachimura. Of course, Bronny is also part of the team, though his role will be determined as the season progresses.

NBA News: Lakers star LeBron James makes huge statement about playing alongside Bronny

The upcoming NBA season will feature a unique and historic element never seen before: a father and son playing together on the same team. The Los Angeles Lakers are set to make this groundbreaking moment a reality, as they anticipate seeing LeBron James and Bronny James sharing the court at Crypto.com Arena.

In light of this unique and likely unprecedented situation, LeBron James himself has shared his thoughts on what it would mean to play alongside his son, Bronny, if head coach JJ Redick decides to make it happen.

James revealed his excitement to play with Bronny on an episode of The Shop, via X (formerly Twitter): "I am so excited for training camp. I mean, having your son work with you, it's like the greatest thing. I can't wait for this moment. I really cannot wait to hit the floor with him. It's going to be pretty surreal for me. That might be the first time I sit back out of my whole career like, (expletive), this is really cool,'" James shared.

The prospect of LeBron and Bronny James playing together soon underscores a shift in focus away from LeBron's individual spotlight. This unique opportunity allows The King to enjoy the journey more fully and concentrate on other aspects of his life and career.

Bronny James #0 of the Sierra Canyon Trailblazers is greeted by his father and NBA player LeBron James after defeating the the Perry Pumas in the Hoophall West tournament at Footprint Center on December 11, 2021 in Phoenix, Arizona.

"I haven't been able to do it for myself, and maybe because I've been trying to climb this mountain. I'm so in the moment, like my whole career, that I pray and hope that me being with my son will finally give me the opportunity to just like pull back and look at it from a different lens," James added.

Main goal for the upcoming NBA Season

The Los Angeles Lakers are in the midst of a process to regain their former competitiveness. The championship they won in 2020, during the pandemic and the Orlando bubble, now feels like a distant memory for the team's fans. Adding to the challenge, their arch-rival, the Boston Celtics, has since surpassed them with an additional title, intensifying the Lakers' drive to return to the top.

As the training camp approaches, several potential names are being considered to reinforce the roster. However, under the guidance of head coach JJ Redick, the Lakers will once again look to their primary stars, LeBron James and Anthony Davis, to lead the team.

Anthony Davis #3 and LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers slap hands after Davis scored against the New Orleans Pelicans off an alley-oop pass from James in the second half of the West semifinal game of the inaugural NBA In-Season Tournament at T-Mobile Arena on December 07, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Lakers defeated the Pelicans 133-89.

James and his legacy despite basketball

In addition to being one of the greatest basketball players in history, LeBron James is determined to be remembered for his contributions outside of sports. He aspires to leave a lasting legacy not only through his achievements on the court but also through his impactful activities and endeavors off the court.

In statements made on Uninterrupted's The Shop, LeBron James expressed: "From time to time, I do think about how do I want to be remembered, and I hope that it's not just the game of basketball. You know, I feel like if it's just the game of basketball, that people talk about me in the sense of I think I've kind of failed my mission."

"So the things that I do in my community, the way myself and Savannah raised our kids, my relationship with my single parent mother, my friendship with my guys, bringing up my people from my hometown. If those conversations don't hit the barbershop, if they don't hit forums or whatever the case may be, then I feel like my mission wasn't completed. And I'm not done, I'm old (expletive) in basketball terms, but I'm super young in life.", The King concluded.

USA Select Team forward says LeBron James meditates before games

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Gilbert Arenas on GOAT debate: ‘The only people who bring Michael Jordan up is when LeBron James' name gets mentioned’

By HoopsHype | September 2, 2024

What's the buzz on Twitter? Tommy Beer @TommyBeerIncredibly – this will be the first year since 2002 (!!!) that neither Federer, Rafa nor Djoker win a major(First time since before LeBron was drafted into the NBA) – 11:55 PM More on this storyline Gilbert Arenas: "All Jordan's competition in that era did not even have the physical tools to keep up with him, so he was basically a Bugatti, and everybody else was a Honda Civic. Most shooting guards were 6'4″ and under; they didn't have any jumping ability. So, who he went against, he's saying they weren't talented, meaning they weren't athletic enough to keep up with him. Today, everybody—me, I've got a 40-something inch vertical. Everybody I'm going against has a 40-inch vertical that can jump with me." -via YouTube / August 28, 2024 What makes James so great in these situations is that he is never predictable, given that there are so many ways in which he can hurt a defense. He also never tries to play hero ball, passing up a great shot for a teammate in order to get a more difficult shot for himself. For the Lakers star, it's the ability to almost manipulate time to his benefit that makes him so calm and collected in those situations. He discussed that concept on the latest episode of The Shop: "What's going on in my head? Like you said it's in slow motion, I slow it down as well. It's just about trying to be patient, not try to be over-exertive or try to pre-determine what I'm going to do. It's just kind of read and react. Even with the clock going 9, 8, 7, 6. If you look at a stopwatch, those seconds are ticking, like they're going fast. But for some odd reason on the basketball court for myself, when the time looks like it's going fast it's actually slowing down for me. So I'm able to just slow it down and be able to see what's going on on the floor. Will that always result in a make? No, I wish. I wish it would go in every single time, but I try to put myself in position that I make the right play or come home for the team every single time. That just comes with experience, the best teacher in life is experience and the more and more you get put in those opportunities and those moments, the better off you'll be." -via Lakers Nation / September 2, 2024 Avery Johnson: "You know, we can really peel back all of the numbers. You can even go with the eye test, but everybody else is a distant second behind Michael Jordan. Just a distant second. And there's no disrespect on it, so please do not send me any hate mail. It's my opinion, right? Michael, just for all the different reasons. But when you win six championships, you're the MVP of all six, you never get to a Game 7, and all of the defensive —first team All-Defense, first team All-NBA, MVPs, regular season MVPs—I think there was another stat that you know, he didn't have as many, it was a revolving door of free agents that he played with, and he did it with one team. And he had to go through the Detroit Pistons, the Boston Celtics, the Lakers, the Phoenix Suns, and Clyde Drexler with that Portland team that could have easily won championships, and Karl Malone and Stock ton with Utah. The rules were different—there was a lot more restricted freedom of movement and physicality. So yeah, it's Michael. The clutch shots, two-way player—it's just Michael. What they did with the Dream Team, yeah, it's just Michael." -via YouTube / August 30, 2024