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 highly decorated American professional basketball player currently with the Los Angeles Lakers. He holds the record for the NBA's all-time leading scorer and has won four NBA championships across ten NBA Finals appearances, including eight consecutive from 2011-2018. He led the Lakers to victory in the inaugural NBA Cup in 2023. James has also achieved significant international success, winning three Olympic gold medals as a member of the U.S. national team.

Sections (6)

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

March 2008: Vogue Cover Appearance

In March 2008, LeBron James became the first black man to appear on the cover of Vogue, posing with Gisele Bündchen. The cover received criticism for its perceived racial undertones.

2010: Listed as One of 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 figures after leaving the Cavaliers. His move was viewed negatively, leading to a damaged reputation and the infamous phrase "taking my talents to South Beach".

2010: Second MVP Award and Move to Miami Heat

In 2010, LeBron James secured his second consecutive NBA MVP award, and then controversially joined the Miami Heat as a free agent, a decision revealed in a nationally televised special called "The Decision."

2014: Donald Sterling's Racist Comments

In 2014, James publicly addressed the racist comments made by then-NBA owner Donald Sterling, marking one of his public stances on controversial issues.

2015: Criticism for Off-Court Controversies

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

2017: Response to Racist Incident and Unite the Right Rally

In 2017, following a racist incident at his Los Angeles home and the Unite the Right rally, James expressed the difficulties of being black in America and questioned the "Make America Great Again" slogan.

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

In February 2018, it was announced that James' production company would produce a new "House Party" film. Following Laura Ingraham's criticism, James created the documentary series "Shut Up and Dribble."

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2018: Feud with President Trump

In 2018, during an interview with CNN, James accused President Donald Trump of trying to divide the country through sports, which led to a public exchange between them.

2019: Controversy over Daryl Morey Tweet

In 2019, James faced controversy after commenting on a since-deleted tweet by Daryl Morey expressing support for the pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong, with James stating Morey was "misinformed".

2019: Trademark request for "Taco Tuesday"

In 2019, LeBron James filed a trademark request for the term "Taco Tuesday" through a shell company, intended for use in audio/visual works, podcasts, social media, online marketing, and entertainment services. The request was later denied by the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

August 27, 2020: Boycott of 2020 NBA Playoffs

On August 27, 2020, James and his Lakers teammates, along with the Bucks, began boycotting the 2020 NBA playoffs to protest the shooting of Jacob Blake. Subsequently, James sought counsel from Barack Obama, who advised continuing the season.

2020: Hong Kong Protests Controversy

In 2020, during the Hong Kong protests, James' statement about Daryl Morey's tweet supporting the pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong became controversial, drawing backlash and racist comments against him.

February 2022: Bill Maher Criticism

In February 2022, political commentator Bill Maher criticized James for his perceived hypocrisy in not taking a stronger stance against the Chinese government's human rights abuses.

2022: Reaction to Dobbs v. Jackson Ruling

In 2022, James voiced his opinion on the ruling of Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization that overturned Roe v. Wade, as part of his public stances on controversial issues.

September 2023: Biogenesis Scandal Client Names Released

In September 2023, ESPN reported that a new set of client names from the Biogenesis scandal had been released, including Ernest "Randy" Mims, a longtime friend and business manager of LeBron James, as well as David Alexander, a 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: Support for Israel in 2023 Israel-Hamas war

In October 2023, James voiced his support for Israel on Instagram in response to the 2023 Israel–Hamas war, which drew backlash for omitting the Palestinians affected by the crisis.