LeBron James Slams ‘Lying’ Media Members for Claims He Scolded Joel Embiid

LeBron James shut down Mike Breen's claim that he scolded Joel Embiid for being late to practice.

LeBron James Slams ‘Lying’ Media Members for Claims He Scolded Joel Embiid

LeBron James (Image credits - The Guardian)

LeBron James will go down as one of the greatest players of all time. After a record-breaking 23rd season in the NBA, James has confirmed he will play at least two more seasons after signing a two-year deal with the Philadelphia 76ers.

Hype around the 76ers is at an all-time high heading into the new season. Their roster has undergone major changes in the summer after suffering a 4-0 defeat in the second round of the playoffs to the New York Knicks last season.

The King has always been regarded for his work ethic and sustained excellence. Hence, his signing was seen as a valuable addition to the 76ers locker room, as he brings much-needed leadership and experience.

While James has not played for the 76ers yet since his move, broadcaster Mike Breen mentioned his name when his team took on the Knicks in their first preseason game. During the game, Breen mentioned that Joel Embiid got an earful from James because he was late for practice.

As the segment went viral, James quickly denied Breen’s report on his Instagram story. He wrote:

He ain’t been late, so stop the lies.

LeBron James on Instagram

Embiid has often made headlines due to his injury troubles. His injury record was even a concern for James prior to his move to Philly. But the big man convinced him he was in good shape and felt healthier than ever this summer.

There has been a lot of talk about Embiid’s recent physical transformation. Reports say his weight has dropped to his rookie-year level. Many have credited James for Embiid’s transformation and work ethic in the summer. While James dismissed Breen’s reports, he also dismissed a potential early drama in Philly with Embiid.

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Mike Breen was fed the wrong information about LeBron James scolding Joel Embiid

When healthy, Joel Embiid is undoubtedly one of the best players in the league. He was drafted by the 76ers back in 2014. While he has an MVP and two scoring titles to his name, injuries have constantly plagued him. Many doubted his work ethic and discipline for his struggles.

Mike Breen has been the lead announcer for NBA games on ABC and ESPN for over 20 years. During the preseason game, he revealed that “somebody” told him about James’ encounter with Embiid before the game.

Somebody told me before the game that they were out ready to practice, and Joel Embiid walked out on the court a couple minutes late, and LeBron let him hear it.

Mike Breen during 76ers vs Knicks

While there is no reason to doubt Breen’s integrity in reporting, it is good to see James not let things blow up even before his season debut. However, as the veteran he is, Breen should have been more careful before airing a second-hand story on national TV.

LeBron James reveals Joel Embiid has not missed a single practice

With just two weeks to go for the new season, the excitement surrounding the 76ers is only getting higher. After the offseason additions of Jaylen Brown and LeBron James, the pressure on Embiid to deliver a championship has only grown.

LeBron James and Joel Embiid
LeBron James and Joel Embiid (Image credits – Legion Hoops/X)

James had very positive observations about how things are going so far for Embiid after training camp got underway.

The real difference between 2024 and now is he’s just so much more healthier. He hasn’t missed a practice. He has been in damn near everything that we’ve done.

LeBron James in his press conference

The expectations on Embiid and James are championship or bust next year. And if they are to end Philly’s 43-year-long wait for a championship, they will need Embiid to stay fit and healthy. Embiid kickstarted ‘The Process’ for the 76ers, and it looks like James may be the final piece.

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