LeBron James is so cool a character that you get the feeling if he didn’t exist, the NBA would have to invent him. Instead, King James invented himself — and his personal narrative has driven the broader NBA story for almost two decades, even through dynasties like the Golden State Warriors.
James’s latest chapter is famously taking place in Los Angeles where, after a tough and injury-stricken first season with the Lakers, King James is again vying for an NBA title with running buddy Anthony Davis and a supporting cast of stars. But James, in year 17, hears the whispers. Is he too old, past his prime, etc.? (Quick answer: nope.)
James uses those kinds of questions about his ability and status for motivation. It’s a page out of the famous take-no-prisoners book authored by the only all-around player historically close to James’s abilities: super predator Michael Jordan, legend and, many say, GOAT.
Jordan’s coaches would sometimes make up insults and attribute them to opposing teams, just so Jordan would play with additional anger. When his coaches didn’t provide fodder, Jordan invented the disrespect himself, always imagining that a formidable opponent like Karl Malone had said he was better than Mike.
James’s approach is identical. But it’s a new age and James doesn’t need to make up the insults. He hears far more criticism through social media than Michael Jordan ever heard. James not only has doubters, he has haters. That’s a big difference.
But James uses the same techniques to fight back against the hate as he does against the doubt. Here below is a prime recent example, where James says: “My drive and passion will outweigh your hate! Nothing you can do to 🛑 me. You only help me!”
May as well just love him then if you’re not a Lakers fan. Maybe the love will slow him down.
