LeBron James faces criticism for shirtless warmup before game
Basketball legend Isiah Thomas recently made headlines for criticizing LeBron James for shooting shirtless before a game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Houston Rockets. Thomas, who serves as an analyst for NBA TV, expressed his disapproval of James’ lack of professionalism during warm-ups.
“I just totally 100% object to this,” Thomas said. “If I were the GM or coach, I would never let one of my players walk out on the floor looking like this. I mean, we’re a professional NBA league. We ain’t summer league. We ain’t at the YMCA.”
Thomas also echoed former NBA player Steve Smith’s sentiment that players should go back to wearing suits before games to uphold the level of professionalism in the league.
“I just think the professionalism in our NBA league has diminished so much,” Thomas continued. “Look, I like LeBron, I’m a fan of his so forth and so on. But to walk out on the floor before a game with no shirt on and shoot – I mean come on man. Where we at? What we doing?”
The debate sparked discussions about the NBA’s dress code and the overall image of the league. Thomas called on NBA Commissioner Adam Silver to consider implementing fines for players who do not adhere to a certain dress code.
In response to Thomas’ comments, LeBron James took to social media after the Lakers’ victory over the Rockets to address the situation. James hinted at his frustration with the criticism but chose to focus on celebrating his team’s success.
“Man I was going to say something but it’s useless at this point in my career! Anyways more important CONGRATULATIONS JJ on a 50 win season in the WEST & Post Season nod!” James wrote.
Despite the controversy surrounding his pre-game attire, James put up impressive numbers in the game, contributing 14 points, eight assists, and four rebounds to help lead the Lakers to a 140-109 victory over the Rockets.
The incident reignited discussions about professionalism in the NBA and the balance between individual expression and league standards. As the debate continues, it is clear that both fans and former players like Isiah Thomas have strong opinions on how players should conduct themselves on and off the court.
