LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers secured their first NBA season tournament win, basking in the glory of their deserved victory. However, amidst the celebrations, another storm is brewing.
Colby Covington, the outspoken UFC fighter who is gearing up to face Leon Edwards has taken a swipe at LeBron James, labeling him a “communist piece,” in response to his shocking anthem gesture.
Covington takes a shot at LeBron James
UFC star Colby Covington intensified the criticism of LeBron James after a video emerged of the Los Angeles Lakers star entering USC’s arena during the national anthem and promptly taking a seat. Covington, who is set to face Leon Edwards in a welterweight bout at UFC 296 this weekend, didn’t hold back in expressing his views.
During a press conference, Covington took a direct shot at LeBron James, stating, “If you hate America so much, and you don’t like this country that gave you a billion dollars, leave it. Or come deal with me. Go to China. Go to these sweatshops that you employ all these laborers and use these women and pay them pennies on the dollar to make your millions.”
He further added, “F— you, LeBron James. You’re a coward. You’re a spineless coward and you’re a b—-.”
The incident in question occurred at USC’s Galen Center in Los Angeles, where King James entered the arena while the national anthem was playing. He was present to support his son, Bronny, who was making his debut as a basketball player after recovering from a cardiac arrest during the summer.
Critics immediately chastised LeBron, accusing him of having no respect for the United States and claiming that he hated the country because he didn’t stand for the anthem.
While differing opinions on standing for the anthem continue to persist, the criticism directed at LeBron James this season appears to be a recurring theme.
LeBron faced bizarre taunts from a 10-year-old fan
LeBron James is no stranger to receiving taunts from fans, but a recent incident involving a 10-year-old NBA fan took things to a whole new level. During a game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Orlando Magic, LeBron found himself on the receiving end of some bizarre insults.
As the Lakers struggled on the court, with a final score of 120-101 in favor of the Magic, this young fan saw an opportunity to taunt James. As he shouted, “Stop flopping. Stop flopping. You look like you sharted your pants”, this unexpected remark caught everyone’s attention and started a buzz among fans and media.
Adding insult to injury, that game also marked the end of the Lakers’ seven-game winning streak against the Magic. Surprisingly, the season series between the two teams concluded with an even 1-1 record, showcasing the Magic’s ability to challenge the juggernauts.
Despite a valiant effort in the final 12 minutes, where both Anthony Davis and LeBron James remained on the court, the Lakers couldn’t overturn the deficit. A crucial three-pointer by the Magic’s Cole Anthony sealed their fate with just over four minutes remaining. At this point, the Lakers had to concede the loss and made the strategic decision to withdraw their star players and empty their bench.
While LeBron has recently faced criticism, his strong performance in winning the NBA MVP award and the season tournament has quieted some of his critics, and even at 38 years old, the King shows no signs of slowing down as he relentlessly pursues more basketball glories.
