If LeBron James chooses to leave the Lakers this offseason, one thing is clear: he won’t be joining the Grizzlies.
Recently, during a golf video shoot, when asked about the challenges of traveling during the season, James made a pointed remark about Memphis. He acknowledged that playing there can be quite exhausting.
The 41-year-old star from Los Angeles candidly stated that Memphis ranks among the most tiring cities for players. He said, “Absolutely yes,” and emphasized how challenging it can be.
He then revealed that not only does he feel this way, but he and some of his fellow players are actually suggesting to Grizzlies players that a move to Nashville might be a better option. James remarked, “You guys have to move. Let’s go to Nashville. They’ve got Vanderbilt over there. They’ve got all sorts of events, a stadium, a hockey team—just everything.”
Looking back, James mentioned that even 23 years ago, after finishing high school, he couldn’t see himself in a Grizzlies uniform, even if they had the first pick in the draft. He joked, “Even if they won the lottery, their only chance was in 2003. I might have pulled an Eli Manning and never shown up.”
His recent comments haven’t gone unnoticed and are stirring up criticism. Jessica Benson, a Grizzlies reporter, took to social media to defend Memphis, calling James’ remarks “misguided.” She argued that people often misunderstand the city and offered to help any NBA players with an itinerary for their next visit.
While James hasn’t yet responded to the backlash, it’s expected that he might address the situation later on Thursday after the Lakers’ game against the Thunder.
