LeBron James doesn’t bite his tongue—especially when it comes to his family. The Los Angeles Lakers superstar found himself in another viral moment, this time firing back at ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith.
After Smith’s harsh criticism of Bronny James, LeBron was spotted having a heated exchange courtside during the Lakers-Knicks game. Now, a new video from TD Garden shows LeBron venting his frustrations to Richard Jefferson—dropping an unfiltered take on Smith’s comments.
LeBron James Blasts Stephen A. Over Bronny James Comments
Stephen A. Smith never shies away from calling out players, and this time, Bronny James was in his crosshairs.
Smith went on a rant about Bronny’s NBA future, saying he’s not ready and that watching him play has been difficult.
LeBron wasn’t having it.
The tension started at the Knicks game, where LeBron confronted Smith courtside. The two exchanged words, and it was clear LeBron wasn’t happy. It didn’t take much to figure out why.
Then, ahead of the Lakers’ matchup with the Celtics at TD Garden, cameras caught LeBron in an intense conversation with former teammate Richard Jefferson. And thanks to some sharp audio, we got James’ unfiltered thoughts.
‘I don’t give a f***. Once he talks about, ‘I’m pleading you as a father, I can’t… that’s the only thing I’m tripping.”
LeBron overheard talking about confronting Stephen A. Smith:
“I don’t give a f***… Once he talks about: ‘I’m pleading you as a father,’ I can’t.”
(via @legendz_nba)pic.twitter.com/6ID8jwE8By
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) March 10, 2025
Safe to say, LeBron is done with talking heads crossing the line.
LeBron and Bronny’s Entangled NBA Seasons
LeBron is still putting up MVP-level numbers while leading the Lakers in their playoff push. Despite all the outside noise, he continues to prove that age is just a number.
Meanwhile, Bronny’s rookie year has been a rollercoaster. The pressure of being LeBron’s son was already massive, but with the media dissecting his every move, it’s only gotten tougher. He’s shown flashes of promise but is still finding his role in the league—and LeBron is making sure no one disrespects his journey.
Smith, for his part, has stood by his take, insisting he was simply offering his opinion on Bronny’s situation. But at this point, the damage is done.
One thing’s for sure: LeBron isn’t about to let anyone mess with his son. And if Smith thought this beef was over? He may be sorely mistaken.
With the season heating up, LeBron and Bronny are staying focused on basketball. But let’s be real—this off-court drama isn’t going anywhere.