"LeBron is a true fan of the sport…Kevin Durant spoke so gloriously about Ja" – NBA analyst approves LeBron James publicly praising young athletes, says growing up in digital age has its advantage
LeBron James has always publicly acknowledged exciting talents. NBA analyst Shannon Sharpe approves and says he likes it when athletes compliment each other publicly.
James and other players in this era have been called soft because of their approach to the game and their friendliness with opponents. However, James believes it is his job to mentor the young players.
After Jordan Poole's display against the Phoenix Suns, James was back online singing the praises of another young player. On "Undisputed: Skip and Shannon," the question about whether there was anything wrong with James' question was raised. Sharpe said:
"I have no problems whatsoever. I like when athletes acknowledge other athletes doing something spectacular. Jordan Poole would never be considered as great as LeBron or Steph for that matter but that was an unbelievable play.
"LeBron James is a fan. He is a true fan of the sport. ... A lot of guys, you see things great and you don't say anything. I see Kevin Durant. Kevin Durant spoke so gloriously about Ja (Morant) and about Zion (Williamson). I like when other athletes compliment, say it publicly."
.@ShannonSharpe has no problem with LeBron James’ praises of Jordan Poole :
“I like when other athletes publicly compliment other athletes doing something spectacular. LeBron is a true fan of the sport." https://t.co/8UzSlpkQGW
Although James still competes hard whenever he is on the floor, it does not stop him from giving kudos to a great player.
LeBron James praising several young NBA stars
When he is not playing or otherwise engaged, James spends his free time watching other NBA games. While many might see the action as simply an avenue to get to know his opponents, LBJ has shown that he is a fan with his reactions on Twitter.
James is one of the oldest players in the league and is arguably the best player in league history. While his comments will undoubtedly be a morale booster for many youngsters, the 4-time NBA champ has spoken highly of a few players.
During the 2022 playoffs, James was in awe of Ja Morant. He sent out several tweets praising the Memphis Grizzlies star for his displays in the postseason.
Before the 2022 All-Star game, he also had high praise for Luka Doncic. He likened the Dallas Mavericks guard to himself, saying they are triple-double threats.
More recently, he sang the praises of 2023 draft prospect Victor Wembanyama. He highlighted that there were a few unicorns but the Frenchman was an alien.
LeBron receiving support as a young NBA star
As a young player, James had a lot of expectations coming into the league. During his time, he did not get a lot of support from the older players.
Nonetheless, James went on to become an outstanding player and became the face of the league. He exceeded all expectations and etched his name in the history books.
James is currently in his 20th season and is expected to lead the LA Lakers to another title run. The 18-time All-Star won the title with the Lakers in 2020 and has since not made it past the first round in the playoffs.