LeBron James

LeBron confronts Stephen A. Smith courtside following the presenter's comments about Bronny's presence in the NBA. The incident develops into a prolonged media dispute, with both men subsequently publicly accusing each other of exaggeration or lying.

State of the evidence

Reported by the press

Attribution

Directly implicated

The Lakers select Bronny James with the 55th pick, allowing LeBron to fulfil his publicly stated goal of playing alongside his son. Analysts argue that an identical prospect with a different surname would probably not have been drafted and criticise the appearance of favouritism.

State of the evidence

Documented

James briefly attended an outdoor promotional event while the league's health rules restricted activities outside the team. The episode prompted questions about possible preferential treatment.

State of the evidence

Admitted by the person

James initially declined to say publicly whether he intended to be vaccinated, then explained that he had been 'very sceptical' before eventually receiving the vaccine after conducting his own research. He nevertheless refused to become a spokesperson for persuading others.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Personally implicated

James posted a photograph of police officer Nicholas Reardon with the words 'YOU'RE NEXT #ACCOUNTABILITY' shortly after Ma'Khia Bryant's death. Political figures accused him of inflaming violence, while video evidence showed a complex situation.

State of the evidence

Reported by the press

Attribution

Directly implicated

Following Daryl Morey's tweet supporting the Hong Kong protests, James said that the executive was insufficiently informed or 'educated' about the situation and stressed the potential consequences of public statements.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Personally implicated

The NBA fined James $5,000 for violating its anti-flopping rule during the Eastern Conference Finals against Indiana.

State of the evidence

Documented

LeBron announced in a special ESPN programme that he was leaving Cleveland for Miami. The staging, lack of clear advance notice to the Cavaliers and impression of self-celebration provoked a strongly negative response.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Directly implicated

During Miami's spectacular presentation, James listed several potential championships — 'not two, not three…' — reinforcing the image of arrogance already created by 'The Decision' and making the Heat a particularly disliked team.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Personally implicated