Jeanie Buss has come to LeBron James’ defence following reports that her relationship with the Los Angeles Lakers star had soured.
The Los Angeles Lakers owner responded after an ESPN report claimed there was tension between her and James, including frustration over his influence within the organisation and ties to Klutch Sports.
Buss disputed the report, saying it was unfair to both her and the four-time NBA champion. She also said it overlooked how much she appreciated what James had accomplished since joining the Lakers in 2018.
Jeanie Buss says LeBron James deserves more respect
Speaking to The Athletic, Jeanie Buss said it was “completely unfair” to suggest she was frustrated with LeBron James and added that he had been dragged into issues unrelated to the team.
“It’s really not right, given all the great things LeBron has done for the Lakers, that he has to be pulled into my family drama. To say that it wasn’t appreciated is just not true and completely unfair to him.”
The ESPN report also claimed Buss had concerns about James’ involvement in team decisions, including his reaction to the Lakers drafting his son, Bronny James, in 2024.
LeBron James remains central to Lakers future
LeBron James joined the Lakers in 2018 and led the team to a championship in 2020. He is currently in the final year of a two-year, $104 million deal signed in 2024.
Despite the speculation, Buss reiterated her respect for James and said his leadership was still important to the team.
Her comments appear aimed at shifting focus back to the Lakers’ pursuit of another title. But given the turbulent nature of these reports, that might not be so easy.
James is expected to leave the LA Lakers this year, after failing to come to terms over an extension last summer. Perhaps this report is the final nail in the coffin for the King’s time in the City of Angels.
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