Retired NBA All-Star Stephon Marbury revealed via social media on Friday that he lost “all respect” for former Cleveland Cavaliers superstar LeBron James when he “disrespected my brand that was helping the people in Akron, Ohio.”
Yeah, I lost all respect for LeBron James when he disrespected my brand that was helping the people in Akron, Ohio. It’s been and will be up for life. So it’s okay; you will learn to deal with it. https://t.co/Br3GgXRwQw
— I AM PEACE STAR (@StarburyMarbury) December 13, 2024
Marbury appears to be referring to some comments that James made back in 2007 as a member of the Cavs. Marbury had an arrangement where his signature shoes sold for around $15 at the time as he wanted to make them affordable to everyone.
James spoke around that time about the idea of having a discounted line, and his comments evidently didn’t sit well with Marbury.
“Me being with Nike, we hold our standards high,” James said. “And we do a great job of putting out great merchandise, great shoes. It does come with a price that is pretty high, but at the same time you’re getting great quality for it.”
Years later, Marbury clearly hasn’t forgotten what James said. He clarified in another post that he forgave James, but the situation seemingly hasn’t left him.
I’ve done nothing wrong by saying what I said. I forgave him; now it’s just examples. LeBron comes off as corny to me. He’s a follower, and he wants to fit in. I’ve known him since he didn’t blow his nose properly and had phlegm on the side of his face. Relax; you people have me… https://t.co/iKPtYqRFMc
— I AM PEACE STAR (@StarburyMarbury) December 13, 2024
Marbury often makes headlines for his comments on James. He has said before that the superstar doesn’t belong “in the same breath” as Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan, and he also called out James after the Los Angeles Lakers forward seemingly ignored him at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
For his part, Marbury had a solid NBA career, earning two All-Star selections and two All-NBA nods. He also had an impressive stint in the China Basketball Association after his time in the NBA came to an end.
James, meanwhile, remains an active NBA player even as he approaches 40 years of age. This season, he has shown some signs of slowing down, but he is still averaging 23.0 points, 8.0 rebounds and 9.1 assists per game.
The 20-time All-Star is unlikely to respond to any of Marbury’s recent comments — especially since he’s currently taking a break from social media — but he’s likely aware of the fact that Marbury isn’t his biggest supporter.
James has been away from the Lakers recently due to personal reasons but will look to help his team build some momentum once he returns. L.A. is 13-11 this season and could use a little winning streak to generate some belief that the team is capable of making some noise in the Western Conference.
