Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James has taken a backseat in favor of Austin Reaves being the team’s second option. It has worked out well for the Lakers, as he’s thrived in his role as the third go-to guy. On Tuesday’s episode of his show with former NBA star Steve Nash, “Mind the Game,” James recalled what it was like seeing Reaves play for the first time.
Reaves signed with the Lakers ahead of the 2021-22 season after going undrafted. According to James, he watched some of the basketball highlights from when the NBA star was in college. The four-time champion said that the former Wichita State guard moved differently.
“After we signed him, I went back and watched a lot of his Wichita State highlights and games and then a lot of his Oklahoma highlights and games as well,” James said.
“The first thing I noticed, it’s kind of funny. We always talk about this. He didn’t play like a white boy. It was very different. His wiggle was very different.”
While James was just sharing his thoughts about his teammate at that time, fans had a wild reaction to it. Here are some of what the fans said about what the Lakers star said.
“Lebron being racist again. Jokic plays like a ‘White boy’ and he’s been kicking your ass for damn near a decade now,” a fan said.
“Jeez. Just imagine this was reversed and it was a white dude being interviewed. ‘He didn’t play like a black dude’, annnnnd cancelled. Great job on the racism,” another fan commented.
“LeBron James is a racist and hates white people….” one fan said.
Other fans came to defend James, however.
“This kinda talk is acceptable in sports but not music, just interesting seeing the difference lol,” someone commented.
“Glad he brought his wiggle to LA,” a comment read.
“I swear! I said this off jump street on Austin reaves! That boy was nice! I was glad he fell to us out of the draft,” one fan commented.
LeBron James Could Return to the Lakers in One Condition
After the 2025-26 season, LeBron James will be a free agent. He has the freedom to join any team and play his 24th NBA season. However, his age is a significant factor in determining the type of deal he will receive over the summer. ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne said that there’s a chance for the Lakers to re-sign him if he takes a pay cut.
Shelburne said that it also applies to other teams that are interested in signing him.
“The sense I have is that this idea of playing for $50M anywhere is probably gone, but if (LeBron) is willing to play for less, and if that fits with what (the Lakers) are trying to do, I think that door is open,” Shelburne said on ESPN’s “NBA Today.”
LeBron James’ injuries this season could have played a part. Additionally, he’ll turn 42 next season, and no one knows how long he’ll continue to play well.
Edited by Reign Amurao
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