Isiah Thomas calls out X account for misinterpreting controversy stirring comments on LeBron James
Former NBA star and analyst Isiah Thomas called out an X account on Friday for misinterpreting his comment about LeBron James. Thomas had previously claimed that, with all things being equal, James may not have been the best athlete if he had played back in 1975.
The X account portrayed Thomas' claim to mean that James would not have been the "best player in the NBA" instead of "athlete," which the two-time NBA champion later highlighted as he called the account out.
"Wow @mymixtapez crazy misleading headline I said best “athlete” why you change my word, to best “player” for clicks? The debate is about athleticism not the best player," Thomas wrote.
Isiah Thomas made the comment about LeBron James in response to an X post which was based upon a 2019 remark by LA Clippers star Lou Williams. During an appearance on the No Chill Podcast in 2019, Williams said that the NBA changes drastically every decade. He cited LeBron James as an example to claim that any recent NBA star could dominate if they could play in the league of the past.
"Drop LeBron James in 1975 and he’d win 15 straight championships,” Williams said.
Though Isiah Thomas did not deny that LeBron would be the most skilled player in the 1970s, he disagreed with the claim that players in earlier decades weren't as athletic or physically gifted.
Isiah Thomas defends 20th-century basketball after LeBron James remark
After his remark that LeBron James may not have been the most athletic in 1975, Isiah Thomas replied to many fans' arguments and support on his tweet. The former Detroit Pistons star shared replies of various fans who agreed with his point and also passionately defended his basketball-playing era against many others who justified otherwise.
"Cross era historical debates are difficult but useful to be reminded of how challenging it was for those players in the past to perform at that level, physically, mentally, socially, economically and politically is truly amazing," Thomas replied to a fan.
"You do realize at least 5 of top 10 players to ever play the game are from my era. Let it be known those are the facts," Thomas replied to a fan.
While Isiah Thomas often praises the current players for taking the game further, he has always held a stance emphasizing the foundation laid by the players of his era and before.