LeBron James’ basketball IQ is something remarkable. He’s incredibly dominant on almost every aspect of the game, but the Los Angeles Lakers superstar has a gifted brain that helps him a lot on the court.
Besides his incredible displays on the floor and how well he’s taken care of his body during all these years, LeBron’s mind has played a key role in his success in the league. Whenever he steps on the court, rivals must fear his passing and scoring ability but also his capacity to break down plays, defensive and offensive schemes.
One of Bron’s former teammates, Channing Frye, recently explained how James’ brain works and all the advantages it gives him and his team. Talking to NBA TV, the former Cleveland Cavaliers player recalled two times LeBron’s brain was extraordinary.
“This man’s mind is a stinking computer. We’re playing in the playoffs. I think it was Detroit. He’s calling out their substitutions patterns. He goes, ‘hey, in two minutes, they’re bringing Aron Baynes, and they’re taking this out. So let’s go on a run.’ When Baynes comes in, Chandie is going to come in, and I’m like, ‘okay,’ maybe because I’m watching fill too now, so I’m like, ‘okay, I may have seen that.’ Lo and behold, two minutes comes it.
“Toronto Eastern Conference finals. This is a true story from a Toronto player. And I was there because he was guarding me. They come out of a timeout and Kyle throws his hands up, whatever. And the guy goes, ‘dang, I didn’t see the call.’ Bron goes, ‘you’re supposed to be in the corner, and then you’re going to cut across. He’s got to sit a down screen. You’re going to come over. We’re going to switch that and Kyle’s going to play me one-on-one.”
LeBron can read everything in front of him and won’t hesitate to explain the plays to rivals. That’s something incredible to watch. The King is on another level when it comes to that. He’s adapting his game once again, playing as center for the Purple and Gold in the past couple of games. The Lakers have gone undefeated in five games, with James playing incredible basketball in the process.
