The iconic NBA superstar and Los Angeles Lakers forward, LeBron James, announced on Wednesday that he would be taking an indefinite break from social media.
The decision came after he amplified a post criticizing the “negative” slant often seen in sports coverage by U.S. media.
James, who commands a staggering 212 million followers across Instagram and X, shared a post originally penned by Rich Kleiman, the longtime agent of fellow NBA star Kevin Durant.
In his post, Kleiman expressed frustration over the persistent negativity in sports journalism.
“With so much hate and negativity in the world today, it confuses me why some of the national sports media still think that the best way to cover sports is through negative takes,” Kleiman wrote. “I for one find it all a waste of breath.”
James didn’t just share the sentiment—he fully endorsed it. His one-word comment, “AMEN!!” left no doubt about his agreement.
Shortly after, the four-time NBA champion followed up with his own announcement, “And with that said, I’ll holla at y’all! Getting off social media for the time being. Y’all take care,” James wrote on X.
This isn’t the first time the NBA’s all-time leading scorer has logged off from social media.
Historically, James has taken such breaks to lock in on his basketball career, particularly during the playoffs. However, his latest departure seems rooted in growing discontent with the online criticism he frequently faces.
Earlier in the week, after a Lakers victory over the Utah Jazz, James had alluded to this criticism while discussing rookie teammate Dalton Knecht’s impressive 37-point performance.
“I’ve been watching Dalton since his days at Tennessee,” James said, referencing Knecht’s collegiate career. However, he used the moment to address a recurring internet narrative. “Everybody on the internet calls me a liar all the time. They say I lie about everything. So what am I now? I’ve been said it. I watched him. I watched Tennessee a lot,” James remarked.
The 39-year-old veteran’s decision to step away from social media highlights his growing frustration with the negativity that seems to dominate both sports coverage and online commentary.
For now, James is prioritizing a more peaceful mental space, leaving fans to wonder when—and if—he will return to the digital world.
