It seems Dillon Brooks has gotten under LeBron James' skin. Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports

An annoyed LeBron James cut reporters off after questions about Dillon Brooks

By Mike Santa Barbara | Last updated 4/21/23

One of the NBA's most effective pests has seemingly gotten under the skin of LeBron James.

Speaking with reporters on Friday, James cut his availability short amid questions surrounding Memphis Grizzlies forward Dillon Brooks, who called the Los Angeles Lakers star "old" after Game 2 on Wednesday.

"I'm not here for the bulls---," James said. "I'm ready to play, and that's it."

After generally side stepping questions about Dillon Brooks’ comments, LeBron James cut off his media availability with a simple message. pic.twitter.com/yVcWNWf5g4
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) April 21, 2023

While Brooks' name continued to get mentioned, James said he "didn't want to talk much more" before making his final statement and walking away. James seemed perturbed but motivated, which might not be the best sign for Brooks and the Grizzlies ahead of Game 3 of their first-round series with the Lakers on Saturday.

Brooks taunted James during Memphis' 103-93 win in Game 2 before criticizing the King for scoring only 28 points in the loss. Brooks went on to roast James, saying he didn't have respect for "someone until he gives me 40."

The 27-year-old's comments caused quite a reaction within NBA circles and beyond. Even noted New York Knicks fan and well-known actor Ben Stiller chimed in on the drama.

With Ja Morant out with injury for Game 2, James and the Lakers blew a golden opportunity to jump ahead of Memphis 2-0 in their best-of-seven series. However, brought on partly by Brooks' antics, James looks ready to right the Lakers' ship.

The series shifts to Los Angeles for the next two games, beginning Saturday with Game 3 at 10 p.m. ET.

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