Lakers guard Austin Reaves recently spilled the tea on LeBron James’ philosophy when it comes to one-on-one basketball. During an outing to the course with BustaJack Golf, Reaves explained that LeBron only plays team ball because it’s the real version of the game.
Austin Reaves: “I’ll play anyone 1-on-1. I’m not saying I’m gonna win, but I’ll play anybody.”
Busta: “Would you play LeBron 1v1?”
Austin Reaves: “Yeah…”
Busta: “Have you played [LeBron James] 1v1?”
Austin Reaves: “Nah, he don’t play 1v1. He said 1v1 is not real basketball… which I kind of agree with.”
Austin Reaves, 26, joined the Lakers in 2021 after going undrafted. His unexpected rise to stardom made him a featured member of the rotation and now he’s the third man down from LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Over the years, Reaves has developed a close and personal relationship with James and he’s gotten to know his habits inside and out.
Interestingly, out of their entire time together, Reaves has never faced LeBron in a one-on-one matchup and that’s likely by design. James, who is always honing his skills on the court, has a very particular view when it comes to the game in its purest form.
For many, one-on-one basketball can be exciting to watch and fans have advocated for a similar event to be added to the All-Star game. But for others, basketball is best displayed in a full-team setting where players can work with each other to find the best shot.
LeBron James has always been more of a team-oriented player so it makes sense that he sees 1-on-1 action as a dishonest form of the game. For James, basketball is about making reads, understanding your opponent, and using your connection with teammates to get the best shot possible. Those elements don’t exist with 1-on-1 games, which are primarily influenced by individual skill and the size difference between players.
While LeBron has played 1-on-1 with his sons before (even breaking a backboard during a shootout with Bronny) it seems that he prefers to work out or practice with them so that they can build skills that are better suited for team success.
So far, the results have been impressive. The team-first mentality has made LeBron one of the best teammates in the league and he’s got a mountain of accolades to show for it. As a 4x champion, 4x MVP, and 20x All-Star, James is on the GOAT track right now and he still has time to accomplish even more.
If LeBron can maximize the roster and help his son reach the peak of his potential, the Lakers could be poised to shock the world and make a deep playoff run. If not, then LeBron will do everything in his power to make the most of this season and prepare his guys for better days in the next campaign.
No matter how it plays out, one thing is for sure: LeBron James is not going to ride solo. Until the day his career is over, LeBron will work closely with his teammates to develop some kind of chemistry and figure out a game plan that works best for everyone.
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