Ex-NBA Star Sends Harsh Bronny James Message to LeBron James

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Feb 18, 2025 12:29 PM ET

LeBron James has been praised throughout the season for his contributions to the Los Angeles Lakers' success, but his absence from Sunday night's All-Star Game has sparked backlash from fans and analysts alike.

The four-time MVP was ruled out just hours before tip-off due to ankle and foot discomfort, according to an NBA announcement. The last-minute decision frustrated many fans who were eager to see James play on Shaquille O’Neal’s OG Team alongside Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant.

Instead, the 40-year-old superstar attended the event but watched from the sidelines as Team Shaq cruised to victory over Team Candace's Rising Stars and Team Chuck's Global Stars.

Among those criticizing James was former NBA star Chandler Parsons, who voiced his frustration on FanDuel’s Run It Back show.

“Here’s the problem I have with LeBron James not wanting to play against the Rising Stars," Parsons said. "All these other NBA players have to play against his son because LeBron has kinda put him in that situation, who’s a rising star. So, what’s the difference now? He doesn’t want to play against the young guys.”

"The problem I have with LeBron James not wanting to play against the Rising Stars is all these other NBA players have to play against his son...

Would he have played if Bronny James was a Rising Star?"@ChandlerParsons doesn't mince words on Lebron's Sunday night sit out ️ pic.twitter.com/vTwOL2eji6
— Run It Back (@RunItBackFDTV) February 17, 2025

Parsons wasn’t alone in his criticism. Co-host Michelle Beadle also called out James, arguing that his late withdrawal robbed another deserving player of an All-Star roster spot. She believed James could have communicated his injury status earlier but instead delayed the announcement.

However, former NBA player Lou Williams came to James' defense. The three-time Sixth Man of the Year reminded his fellow panelists that James, despite turning 40 in December, is still playing heavy minutes and has appeared in 48 games this season.

Williams dismissed claims that James intentionally avoided playing against the younger players, emphasizing that his workload and longevity tell a different story.

LeBron James announces that he will not play in tonight’s NBA All-Star Game due to ankle and foot issues. pic.twitter.com/UKgk1FGiEv
— Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) February 16, 2025

James is currently averaging 24.6 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 9.0 assists, shooting 51.6% from the field this season. He will play a crucial role alongside new teammate Luka Doncic as the Lakers chase their 18th NBA championship.

It remains to be seen if James will be available when the Lakers return to action on Wednesday against the Charlotte Hornets.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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