At best, the current relationship between LeBron James and Kyrie Irving can be described as rocky. After recent comments by Irving dismissed James’ ability to perform in the clutch, the Lakers superstar responded with some fire of his own, expressing disappointment in a recent guest appearance on the “Road Trippin'” podcast.
Among the many comments made about his former teammate, LeBron told the world about how he helped him get his own signature shoe at Nike, calling his “guys” at the company to help confirm the process.
“The kid gets a signature shoe from Nike, which we know there’s a small [group]. I mean, out of all the players that’s played in our league, out of all the players that’s been with Nike, there’s not many signature guys,” James said.
“And I was like, ‘That is a signature guy. Because not only is it his ability, what he does on the floor. Not only with his size. And his handle. His handle — kids love that. He’s going to have a following. That is a signature guy.’
“So I was like, I told my guys at Nike, ‘Yes, if this is what you guys are thinking, stop f—ing thinking. He’s a signature guy. There’s nothing to think about.’”
Apparently, James expressed nothing but confidence inKyrie, constantly talking up his game when they were both in Cleveland and sticking his neck out to make sure he was getting recognized.
The shoe deal is just another example of the ways in which Bron tried to support his teammate.
Nevertheless, it seemingly wasn’t enough and just a year after they won the title, Irving would request a trade from the franchise. Today, even LeBron himself openly admits they didn’t vibe.
