LeBron James, freshly adorned with a gold medal from the Paris Olympics, was at the center of a social media storm on Sunday following an encounter with a young fan in France.
In the video, James, who had just led Team USA to victory over France, is seen walking with his wife, Savannah, and an entourage.
As a young fan approached James for a possible interaction or photo, the Los Angeles Lakers star responded with a stern “Stop.”
One of James’ team members then nudged the fan aside as the group entered a restaurant.
LeBron James is the epitome of trash in the NBA.
— Gunther Eagleman™ (@GuntherEagleman) August 11, 2024 [1]
While James received congratulations from photographers and celebrated his gold medal win with a dance, the video of the fan interaction quickly drew criticism online.
It’s been shown over and over again Lebron isn’t a good person. I don’t think anyone is surprised by his actions.
— Zeek Arkham 🇺🇸 (@ZeekArkham) August 11, 2024 [2]
I’m surprised he didn’t fall in the ground crying and acting like the kid knocked him down.
Big freaking crybaby.
— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) August 11, 2024 [3]
Not standing for the national anthem was bad. So is this.
— Paul A. Szypula 🇺🇸 (@Bubblebathgirl) August 11, 2024 [4]
When things aren’t staged- you really see people for whom they are. James is not a good person.
— Janet Gartner (@janet_gart87502) August 11, 2024 [5]