“Nobody Believes That”: Stephen A. Smith is Certain LeBron James is Involved in Maverick Carter’s $5B Basketball League

Maverick Carter has been named an advisor by a group of investors looking to raise $5 billion to form an international basketball league. The bold plan is for the league to rival the modern NBA. That’s a tall task even with the NBA’s struggling TV ratings. While LeBron James, Carter’s longtime friend, is reportedly not involved, Stephen A. Smith doesn’t believe the face of basketball would not have given any input regarding the proposed league.

“Respectfully, nobody, and I mean nobody on the planet wants to hear that something doesn’t involve LeBron James,” SAS said on ESPN’s First Take when asked about his thoughts on the rival league.

Smith believes that it’s insane to think that the multi-faceted Carter, who is also LeBron’s business manager, would take on the monumental venture without the support of James.

“I mean, this is one of the most asinine things that somebody could put out there,” Smith continued. “Nobody believes that.” 

Stephen A. underlined that his take was speculation since he hadn’t spoken to anyone involved yet. However, he also rattled off several reasons why LeBron would want to be involved in the league. With the King’s playing career nearing its end, Smith knows the future Hall of Famer has long been planning his next move.

Stephen A. speculates why LeBron would be involved in Carter’s league

Stephen A. adamantly claimed that LeBron was somehow involved in Mav Carter’s league, even if reports say otherwise. The longtime sports personality dove into two possible reasons.

First, Stephen A. mentioned how LeBron recognizes that he won’t be able to become an NBA owner at his current pace and is using his investment in the rival league to strong-arm the NBA. Smith believes the 40-year-old is showing the NBA what he is capable of on his own, to convince the league to allow him to own a franchise.

Second, Stephen A. underlined how James had mentioned team ownership as a future goal during last year’s In-Season Tournament.

“LeBron would love to become the owner of an NBA team. He would love to bring a team to Las Vegas and be a part-owner,” Smith added.

Unfounded speculation from an emotionally driven analyst like Stephen A. is nothing new. However, the veteran sports journalist understands that LeBron is constantly looking for new endeavors. So it’s possible this isn’t one of Smith’s wildest theories.