Internet melts down as Shannon Sharpe shockingly criticizes ‘selfish’ LeBron James: “Unc finally realized”

Shannon Sharpe called out LeBron James over his last minute decision to pull out of the All-Star game causing social media to erupt.

Internet melts down as Shannon Sharpe shockingly criticizes ‘selfish’ LeBron James: “Unc finally realized”

Shannon Sharpe called out LeBron James

LeBron James’ decision to sit out of the 2025 NBA All-Star Game sent shockwaves through the league, but the biggest surprise may have come from Shannon Sharpe’s reaction to it. Known as one of James’ most vocal supporters in the media, Sharpe did something few expected. He criticized the four-time NBA champion for his handling of the situation.

James cited lingering foot and ankle issues as his reason for withdrawing, but the last-minute timing of his announcement came under fire from fans and analysts across the sports world. While appearing on ESPN’s First Take alongside Stephen A. Smith and Kendrick Perkins, Shannon Sharpe expressed his disappointment in LeBron James for his decision to sit out of the All-Star game at the last hour.

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I’m disappointed in LeBron. I believe LeBron knew on Wednesday night he wasn’t gonna play [in the All-Star Game].

Shannon Sharpe said on First Take

Sharpe’s frustration stemmed from the fact that James’ last-minute decision meant someone else, like the Los Angeles Clippers’ Norman Powell, missed out on a career-defining All-Star selection. What made Shannon Sharpe’s comments even more surprising was the reaction from Stephen A. Smith, who was taken aback by Sharpe’s criticism. Sharpe has historically been one of James’ most ardent defenders. But this time, he even had to call out what he thought was a selfish move.

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Unlike other injured stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo, who announced his absence early and allowed a deserving replacement in Trae Young to take his spot, LeBron James waited until the last possible moment, which may have denied other deserving candidates from appearing in the All-Star game as injury replacements.

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Fans praise Shannon Sharpe for calling out LeBron James’ antics

As soon as Shannon Sharpe’s criticism aired, social media erupted. Fans were glad to see Sharpe calling out LeBron James over his controversial last-minute decision to pull out of the All-Star game. Sharpe has historically been one of the biggest fans of James in the mainstream media, and his decision to call out James for Sunday was shocking to many fans.

Fans pointed out that despite being labeled a LeBron James supporter, Sharpe has at least been willing to criticize him when warranted. But the backlash from fans and analysts wasn’t just about LeBron James’ absence. James has made 21 consecutive All-Star appearances since 2005, meaning his selection has become almost a formality.

But for players like Norman Powell, who have never been All-Stars, missing out on an opportunity like this is significant. Powell is in the midst of a career year, thriving in his role as the Clippers’ go-to scorer in the absence of stars. Statistically, he ranks among the most efficient high-volume scorers in the NBA.

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In fact, he is the first player ever to average 24+ points per game on 63% true shooting or better without being named an All-Star. Had James bowed out earlier, Powell or another deserving player could have gotten their moment under the bright lights at the Chase Center.