Home

NBA

Billionaire LeBron James Was Nearly Left Embarrassed After Almost Losing to $400M Worth TV Host at Free Throws

Published 09/16/2022, 9:00 PM EDT

Follow Us

USA Today via Reuters

Having a mountain of expectations ever since his debut, LeBron James has evolved into a phenom. Mastering almost all the major facets of the game, the King began to reign over the NBA. Now on the verge of becoming the all-time leading scorer in the NBA, age hasn’t been a barrier for the four-time champion. However, despite arguably being one of the greatest of all time, James hasn’t been able to master one part of his game, free throws.

The Akron Hammer had two major deficiencies when he first came into the league, shooting from distance and within 15 feet of the basket. As a freight train, LeBron James is one of the best drivers in basketball. In addition, he has no problem finishing with immense pressure all over him. However, over the course of his career, the Los Angeles Lakers forward has had some horror showings from the spot.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

There even came a time the King nearly embarrassed himself on television. Host David Letterman nearly got the better of James in a shooting competition as it all came down to the buzzer.

Hosting the iconic ‘Late Show with David Letterman’, the $400 million net worth TV host invited a young NBA sensation, LeBron James to his show. In a dominant third-season campaign, the four-time MVP had risen to an All-Star caliber player. However, as humor is a big part of late-night television, Letterman dug right into James’ poorest skillset on the court.

LeBron James saved himself from major embarrassment

Shooting 73% from the line that season, the King had one of his better seasons. However, the host felt he could get the better of his guest. Likewise, a competition was underway, and Letterman nearly came out on top.

“They Look Like the 2023 Rockefellers”: Billionaire LeBron James and Family Left His Mother Gloria in Awe As ‘The Royal Family of the NBA’ Posed for Latest Photoshoot

Winning by just a single point, LeBron James was close to getting embarrassed for his free throw skills. Despite having a slight disadvantage in shooting from a farther distance, his basketball mastery was a huge mismatch.

Trending

Get instantly notified of the hottest NBA stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.

Follow Us

As time has progressed, LeBron James’ troubles at the line haven’t gone away. However, at the age of 37, the King nearly had a career season. Averaging over 30 points, the four-time NBA champion’s longevity shocked the NBA community. However, he also had one of his best seasons from the free throw line, shooting 75.6%. However, the percentage remains low from the expected standards of one of the greatest.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

USA Today via Reuters

Notably, the King averaged just six attempts per game last season. Despite being an interior player, James averaged a career-low in the free throw category at just 27%. The Los Angeles Lakers forward has previously said he aims to get to the spot more often next season.

Watch this Story: Bill Russell Career: When Did The Celtics Legend Retire?

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

As the 37-year-old ages, it seems James is only getting better. Having self-awareness of his powers and a willingness to adapt, the 18-time All-Star has arguably managed to still stay on top of his game.

Returning with a mindset to face his toughest challenge more often, do you think LeBron James will shoot better from the line next season? Let us know your views in the comments below.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE :

Written by:

Anuj Talwalkar

2,362Articles

One take at a time

Anuj Talwalkar is an NBA writer at EssentiallySports. He is a student studying at NM College in Mumbai, aspiring to pursue sports management to follow his love for sports. Anuj started following the NBA last year, and he loves to combine his passion for writing with his understanding of basketball.
Show More>

Edited by:

Veer Badani