In the ongoing NBA playoffs, the Lakers-Grizzlies series has been heating up off the court as well. Lakers’ star LeBron James has been in a feud with Grizzlies’ forward Dillon Brooks. In Game 3, Brooks was ejected after hitting James in the groin (The Athletic). Brooks had previously been trash-talking James, who responded by saying, “This is not my first rodeo” (CBS Sports).
Despite the altercation, James is expected to play in Game 4 as the Lakers look to advance in the playoffs. He was listed as probable due to right foot soreness but has been deemed available (Sports Illustrated, ClutchPoints). The Lakers currently lead the series 2-1.
This isn’t the first time James has faced trash talk and conflict on the court. He is a seasoned veteran having been in the league for 18 years (CBS Sports). However, the tension between Brooks and James has taken the beef to a new level (Sporting News).
Off the court, James has been vocal about social justice issues and has used his platform to bring attention to important causes. He started the I Promise School in Akron, Ohio to provide education to at-risk children (USA Today).
James is known as one of the greatest basketball players of all time and has won numerous awards and championships throughout his career. He has also been acknowledged for his philanthropic efforts, including being named Sports Illustrated’s Sportsman of the Year in 2016 (CBS Sports).
As the playoffs continue, it remains to be seen if the tension between Brooks and James will escalate further. However, one thing is for certain: James will continue to impact the game both on and off the court.
