LeBron James faces backlash from Jason Whitlock over his comments on Takeoff’s death, sparking a debate about the role of athletes
Los Angeles Lakers’ LeBron James
LeBron James has always been a vocal advocate of critical issues outside the basketball court – such as, when he was deeply affected by the death of Takeoff, a member of the rap group Migos, in 2022. He openly spoke about Takeoff’s passing at a press conference after a game, as he termed it a “hit” to the Black community.
Furthermore, LeBron James explained that figures like athletes, and artists, can serve as sources of inspiration, which made Takeoff’s death a significant loss. However, not everyone agreed with James’ perspective as Jason Whitlock, a sports journalist, on his show ‘Fearless with Jason Whitlock,’ revisited James’ comments and offered a very critical response.
LeBron’s view of the world is so narrow; he can only see it through his 6’9” generational talent lens. He’s unintelligent. He doesn’t realize that black people can be mentored by more than just dope-boys.
Jason Whitlock said on his show about LeBron James
When Takeoff died, LeBron gave his take on the situation and somehow connected how black people’s only inspirations are athletes, musicians, and dope-boys. LeBron’s view of the world is so narrow; he can only see it through his 6’9” generational talent lens. He’s unintelligent.… pic.twitter.com/2dNlFU4Vz3
— Jason Whitlock (@WhitlockJason) November 2, 2024
This is not the first time King James has taken a smack for his views about issues that are not basketball-related. Recently, he gave out his endorsement to Vice President Kamala Harris while dishing out a damning critique of her opponent, former President Donald Trump.
Whether his endorsement will carry weight or not, is a decision left to the voters who will cast their votes. This season, he has made history by playing alongside his son, Bronny while leading the Lakers to an unexpected 4-2 record in the league.
LeBron James leads Lakers to victory and makes NBA history
If going by what Jason Whitlock had to say, LeBron James did what he knows how to do best as he helped the Los Angeles Lakers defeat the Toronto Raptors 131-125 on Friday. As a result, they improved their record to 4-2 and ended their two-game losing run.
LeBron James (39 years, 307 days) becomes the oldest player in NBA history to record 25+ PTS, 10+ AST, and 0 TOs in a game!
Previously: Steve Nash (38 years, 34 days) https://t.co/pRL9qMmLUA pic.twitter.com/dK2kOhcy3k
— NBA History (@NBAHistory) November 2, 2024
The four-time NBA winner was instrumental in the win, as he finished with 27 points, six rebounds, ten assists, and one steal. Furthermore, his performance also made NBA history as he became the oldest player in NBA history to record 25+ points, 10+ assists, and 0 turnovers in a game.
Additionally, the 20-time NBA All-Star is off to a strong start to the season, as he is currently averaging 22.2 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 7.2 assists per game. Moving forward, the Lakers will look to continue their momentum on Monday night when they visit the Detroit Pistons.
