Stephen A Smith went on a characteristic rant about LeBron James and his flopping offenses on his personal ESPN show yesterday.
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The NBA is giving away fouls more cheaply than ever. As a result of this, players are also throwing themselves to the floor at the lightest touches to game the officials.
LeBron James is no more guilty than most other superstars of flopping. Many a time, James definitely has a valid reason to try and embellish contact. He’s by far the toughest player to officiate in today’s NBA because he initiates a lot of contact, but he also eats a ton of it.
The incident in question is from the Lakers’ 115-105 win over the Grizzlies on Friday night. Brooks appeared to touch LeBron on the arms, following which James went down like a sack of potatoes. Replays showed that Brooks might have just tickled a couple of goosebumps on his arm.
Stephen A Smith says LeBron James is guilty, but will serve no jail time
James was roundly criticized all across social media for his precipitous actions, which don’t belong on a basketball court. Given his past record and how he hadn’t ever received a warning from the league, people expected him to get away with it yet again.
However, the NBA decided that enough is enough this time around. They warned LeBron James not to engage in such simulations again, failing which he’ll earn a fine.
Stephen A talked about this on the latest edition of Stephen A’s World, his new ESPN+ show:
“LeBron should set the example as one of the reigning champions and a top 2 player of all time. You shouldn’t be following bad examples, especially when you are in Tinseltown. If you’re gonna flop, bro, you gotta put forth a better acting job for the cameras.”
“The case involving LeBron James: I’d say he’s guilty, but no jail time. Just a little fine.”
