LeBron James’ journey to NBA greatness began in 2003 when the Cleveland Cavaliers selected him as the first overall pick in the NBA Draft. Cleveland had finished the 2002-03 season with a dismal 17-65 record. The Cavs then won the lottery, allowing them to select the most hyped high school prospect in basketball history.
However, LeBron recently raised eyebrows by questioning whether the 2003 NBA Draft was “arranged” to ensure he landed with the Cavaliers. Former NBA star Gilbert Arenas agreed with LeBron during a candid interview on Vlad TV. Arenas went on to describe the NBA as more of a business club than a mere sports league.
“You know, when you’re talking about Roger Goodell and all them, they actually work for the owners. And the NBA is a club—no different than Soho Club—and it’s a club here, and I’m selling you on this club, which means I have to make sure everyone’s meeting their needs,” Arenas said.
Arenas then suggested that sometimes stars are moved or placed in certain situations to benefit the league as a whole. He then pointed directly to LeBron’s draft landing.
“So if, you know, we have a Cleveland and you’ve got the number one player in the country in your backyard, and that city is suffering—and they’ve been suffering for years—and the owner’s been loyal, he hasn’t really complained… then hey, you know, if it bounces Cleveland, it bounces Cleveland… I would do it,” he added.
LeBron James Feels “Best Physically” After Pelicans Win
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral NBA stories via Google! Follow Us
After a convincing win against the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday, LeBron James took a moment to reflect on his performance. Speaking to reporters postgame, LeBron shared that he may finally be hitting his physical stride late in the season.
“I just tried to press, get downhill, my rhythm, as far as my jump shot felt pretty good today, I was shooting from the free throw line extremely well, and I’m a bit late, but it’s probably the best physically I felt. So hopefully, I can build off of that,” James said.
LeBron played a key role in the 123-109 victory, contributing 27 points, eight assists, and two steals. Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves delivered explosive scoring performances with 35 and 30 points, respectively, combining with LeBron to help secure the Lakers’ position as the third seed in the Western Conference.
