LeBron James corrects viral clip calling Sabrina Ionescu's shot a floater: "It's one leg jump shot"
LA Lakers forward LeBron James is both a fan and a student of the game of basketball. He showcased this once again after praising New York Liberty guard Sabrina Ionescu for a tough 3-pointer while correcting SportsCenter for calling it a floater.
The shot being discussed occurred during the waning moment of the first quarter in the Liberty vs Seattle Storm contest on Friday. Ionescu created space between her and her defender through a pick before nailing the long-distance shot. SportsCenter posted the highlight and called it a "3-PT Floater."
The erroneous caption was corrected by none other than LeBron, who said in the comments section.
"TOUGH!!!" That's not a floater by the way! It's a one leg jump shot.
By definition, a floater is a shot typically performed in the lane against taller defenders. The ball follows a high arc toward the rim to avoid getting blocked and is also known as a teardrop or a runner. This makes Ionescu's highlight 3 a jumper instead of a floater.
This wasn't Ionescu's only 3-pointer of the game. She recorded a total of three makes from beyond the arc on eight attempts and ended the night with 25 points. She also grabbed eight rebounds and dished eight assists to contribute to the Liberty's 98-85 win.
Ionescu's teammate Breanna Stewart also had a big game, scoring a game-high 32 points.
Also read: LeBron James claims he could get a podium finish for USA in two track and field events: "Need my six months, eight months or whatever"
LeBron James recognizes Caitlin Clark's monster game against Chicago Sky
The New York Liberty vs. Seattle Storm game wasn't the only WNBA contest that LeBron James was paying attention to on Friday. The game between the Indiana Fever and Chicago Sky, which featured rookies Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark, also earned some recognition from the four-time NBA champion.
Specifically, it was the record-setting performance from Clark that seemed to pique his interest. Clark not only drained basket after basket, she also ensured that her teammates would get their baskets as she recorded a double-double consisting of 31 points and 12 assists.
Contributing to Clark's 31 points were her five 3-pointers. She had a game-high in all three of these stats (points, assists, 3PM) and was instrumental in her team's blowout 100-81 win.
Clark's stat line was special as it was the first-ever 30-point and 10-assist game with five 3-pointers made in WNBA history.
LeBron James has been widely regarded as one of basketball's GOATs. Not only does he play the game at a high level, he's also helped advance the WNBA by consistently supporting the league and its players.