Major Controversies Surrounding LeBron James: A Detailed Timeline

A closer look at the most debated and controversial moments involving LeBron James.

LeBron James, nicknamed "King James", is a professional basketball player for the Los Angeles Lakers. He holds the distinction of being the NBA's all-time leading scorer. James has achieved remarkable success, securing four NBA championships across ten NBA Finals appearances, including eight consecutive appearances from 2011 to 2018. In 2023, he added another achievement to his legacy by winning the inaugural NBA Cup with the Lakers. Furthermore, he has earned three Olympic gold medals representing the U.S. national team, solidifying his status as one of basketball's greatest players.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

March 2008: James on Vogue Cover with Gisele Bündchen

In March 2008, LeBron James appeared on the cover of Vogue with Gisele Bündchen, marking the first time a black man was featured on the cover since Richard Gere and George Clooney.

2010: James listed as one of the most disliked athletes

Following his actions during the 2010 free agency period and "The Decision", LeBron James was listed as one of the most disliked athletes in the United States.

2010: Criticism after Leaving Cavaliers

In 2010, LeBron James faced intense criticism from various sources after leaving the Cavaliers, with "The Decision" and his subsequent comments on race sparking controversy and damaging his public image.

2010: Media and Fanbase Reaction

Throughout the 2010-11 season, LeBron James and the Miami Heat were treated as villains by the media and opposing fanbases.

2014: James Speaks Out Against Donald Sterling's Racist Comments

In 2014, LeBron James publicly addressed then-NBA owner Donald Sterling's racist comments.

2015: Off-Court Controversies

During the 2015-16 season, LeBron James faced criticism for his role in several off-court controversies, including the midseason firing of Cavaliers' coach David Blatt.

2017: James on Being Black in America

In 2017, following a racist incident at his Los Angeles home, LeBron James expressed the challenges of "being black in America". Later that year, he questioned the "Make America Great Again" slogan after the Unite the Right rally.

February 2018: Announcement of House Party Film and "Shut Up and Dribble" Controversy

In February 2018, James' production company announced it would produce a new film in the House Party series. Also in February 2018, Fox News host Laura Ingraham told James to "shut up and dribble" in response to his political views, leading to his creation of the documentary series Shut Up and Dribble.

2018: James Accuses Trump of Dividing the Country

During a 2018 interview with CNN journalist Don Lemon, LeBron James accused President Donald Trump of attempting to divide the country with sports. Trump responded via Twitter, calling Don Lemon "the dumbest man on television."

2019: Controversy over James' Statement on Daryl Morey's Tweet

In 2019, a statement LeBron James made regarding a tweet by Daryl Morey expressing support for the Hong Kong pro-democracy movement became controversial, with James stating Morey was "misinformed".

August 27, 2020: James Boycotts NBA Playoffs to Protest Shooting of Jacob Blake

On August 27, 2020, LeBron James and his Lakers teammates began boycotting the 2020 NBA playoffs to protest the shooting of Jacob Blake. In response, Jared Kushner planned to reach out to James, and Barack Obama advised the players to continue playing and finish the NBA season.

2020: James Statement on Morey's Tweet Sparks Controversy

In 2020, LeBron James' statement about Daryl Morey's tweet supporting the pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong continued to be a subject of controversy, drawing backlash from protesters.

February 2022: Bill Maher Criticizes James' Stance on China's Human Rights Abuses

In February 2022, political commentator Bill Maher criticized LeBron James for not taking a critical stance toward the Chinese government's human rights abuses.

2022: James Comments on Overturning Roe v. Wade

In 2022, LeBron James took a public stance on the ruling of Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization that overturned Roe v. Wade.

September 2023: Biogenesis Scandal Client Names Released in September 2023

In September 2023, ESPN reported that a new set of client names from the Biogenesis scandal had been released; included was Ernest "Randy" Mims, a longtime friend and business manager of LeBron James, as well as David Alexander, a well-known trainer of prominent athletes who co-owned a cold-pressed juice and smoothie business with Savannah. The DEA determined that there "was never any indication that LeBron James did anything wrong."

October 2023: James Voices Support for Israel Amidst Gaza War

In October 2023, LeBron James voiced his support for Israel on Instagram in response to the Gaza war, drawing criticism for omitting the Palestinians affected by the crisis.