The Lakers have been crowned as the first-ever champions of the inaugural NBA In-Season Tournament, and LeBron James was named as the most valuable player in the entire tournament. The Lakers qualified for the finals after beating the New Orleans Pelicans and faced the Indiana Pacers on Saturday.
The Pacers were unable to secure the victory as a dominant performance by the Lakers shattered all hopes. In the award ceremony after winning the match, NBA Commissioner Adam Silvers addressed the winners and cleverly teased LeBron James.
Adam Silver teases LeBron James with Las Vegas franchise reference
LeBron James has openly expressed his desire to own an NBA team after his retirement and almost everyone including Adam Silver is aware of the Future Hall of Famer’s wish. Hence, when he got an opportunity to tease the 4-time champion, he did not hold back and cleverly passed a few jabs at the Lakers’ ace.
During the award ceremony, Silver took the mic to address the winning team. He then presented the In-Season Tournament MVP award to LeBron James and gave a brief introduction for Bron while also teasing him. Bron laughed at the clever tease by Silver while the rest of the Lakers team celebrated another achievement of their ace.
Silvers said, “The last trophy today, the MVP Cup for an outstanding play throughout the entire tournament, to a man who quite frankly, has nothing else to win in this league. The only thing I can say here is, ‘I am sorry but it does not come with a franchise.’ LeBron James, the MVP.”
LeBron James’ IST stats
Lebron James not only just delivered a great performance in the semi-finals and finals of the In-Season Tournament but also was an overall beast in the entirety of it. James’ form in the tournament proved that age doesn’t matter in front of hard work and discipline. He put up great numbers that were credible enough for him to win the MVP award of the Tournament.
LeBron James averaged 26.4 points, 7.0 assists, and 8.0 rebounds in the whole tournament, He had a field goal shooting percentage of 56.8% and 60.6% on his downtown shots. These amazing stats combined with the crucial support of his teammates allowed Bron to maintain a 7-0 record with the Lakers in the Tournament.
Anthony Davis also stepped up his game in the tournament and put out great numbers. His inspiration might have been his heartwarming plans for the prize money that he revealed a few days back.
What do you think of Adam Silver teasing James? Do you think LeBron James will own a franchise one day in the NBA? We are eager to know your opinions, so drop them down in the comments and let us know.
