LeBron James has a fan in Shannon Sharpe, who passionately supports the Lakers. He almost took on the entire Memphis Grizzlies roster and once stated he’d “pour honey” on his GOAT, LeBron. However, even Sharpe has limits when it comes to defending James, and his decision to skip Sunday’s All-Star Game due to ankle soreness was a tipping point.
James made the announcement to sit out on the day of the game, which prevented someone like Toronto’s Norman Powell from seizing the opportunity to participate. This decision not only prompted criticism from Draymond Green, Jalen Rose, and Vince Carter but also placed him squarely in Sharpe’s sights. Sharpe expressed his concerns, saying, “Sit out, now let Norman Powell get an All-Star Game selection. Just like Giannis [Antetokounmpo], who knew he had a slight injury and withdrew. Trae Young is now a four-time All-Star. LeBron earned the right to be there, but he didn’t notify until Saturday. If you know you’re not playing, why block someone else from playing?”
He continued, “Of course, they still want him there; he’s the biggest name in basketball. They’ll love to have him show up, get introduced to the fans, but c’mon, man. I thought Norman earned his spot with his performance in the first half of the season.” Sharpe admitted, “I’m LeBron’s biggest supporter, but I wholeheartedly disagree with the timing of this announcement. He knew he wasn’t going to play—do you honestly think he just decided today?”
When his Nightcap cohost Chad Johnson suggested giving LeBron a pass because of his status, Sharpe strongly countered, “No, LeBron James is not bigger than the game of basketball. You say he’s earned the right? No, he hasn’t. I disagree vehemently… He shouldn’t have waited until Sunday to make this announcement, he should’ve done it on Thursday. Also, by leaving, Shaq’s team is left with only seven players.”
Sharpe still couldn’t understand why James didn’t simply do what Giannis did; it seemed like such an obvious choice. Yet, James appeared unable to make that decision, leading everyone, including Sharpe, to question why he opted to block someone else’s opportunity.
