On Monday night, Ohio State defeated Notre Dame 34-23 to win the National Championship, and among the notable attendees in Atlanta was none other than Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James.
Fresh off a Sunday night game in Los Angeles against the Clippers and with a Tuesday matchup against the Washington Wizards looming, the 40-year-old NBA icon took a whirlwind trip across the country to support his beloved Buckeyes . While the Lakers were off Monday, the decision to make such a demanding trip raised questions among fans and commentators.
LeBron’s busy schedule
LeBron’s trip from Los Angeles to Atlanta and back — a flight that can take more than four hours each way — takes place in the middle of a grueling NBA season. The Lakers are 22-18, currently sitting in sixth place in the Western Conference, and James has performed at a high level, averaging 23.8 points, 7.4 rebounds and 8.9 assists all shooting 51.4% from the field and 40.0% from three-point range.
Via Arash Center de The Sporting Tribune:
“The Lakers are not playing tonight. They played last night in Los Angeles and play tomorrow night in Los Angeles, which allows LeBron James to take a quick trip to Atlanta to watch Ohio State take on Notre Dame for the national championship. »
Despite his impressive numbers, fans on social media expressed mixed reactions to his decision to prioritize a college football game during the season.
Fans react on social networks
LeBron’s cross-country trip sparked a variety of reactions online, with some fans finding the move amusing and others questioning his commitment to the Lakers.
-- @mathomp_501: “LeBron leisurely flying from LA to Atlanta and back on his day off to watch Ohio State makes me laugh.”
- @CaptainKnots888: “LeBron actually played a game last night in LA, flew to Atlanta to watch Ohio State, and has another game again in LA tomorrow night.”
- @Mark_My_Words79: “So the Lakers are playing at home tomorrow night against the Wizards, and LeBron is across the country in Atlanta supporting Ohio State. I’d bet my house he’ll have a ‘load management’ day tomorrow.”
- @aTiFdAwOoD: “So LeBron James lost to the Clippers last night, also missed a free throw, and is in Atlanta watching the college championship game. Yes, he really cares.”
Balancing personal interests and team responsibilities
While some fans criticized LeBron’s decision, others pointed out that Monday was a rare opportunity for the four-time NBA champion to support Ohio State, a school he has publicly supported for years. With no games scheduled that day, the trip allowed James to enjoy some personal time without directly impacting the Lakers’ schedule.
However, critics argue that such a trip could take a toll on the veteran’s body, especially since he is expected to play significant minutes against the Wizards on Tuesday. Speculation about a possible “load management” or night off for James has already started to circulate among fans and analysts.
The big picture for the Lakers
With a record of 22-18, the Lakers are in the heart of the race for the playoffs. LeBron’s production has been vital to their success, but the team’s ability to maintain consistency will be crucial as the season progresses. Balancing individual moments like this trip with team commitments will be key for James as he navigates his 21st season in the NBA.
Whether or not this cross-country excursion impacts his performance, LeBron’s unwavering support for Ohio State highlights his multifaceted personality: a family man, an NBA legend and a sports enthusiast.
