It’s been a wild week in the sports world. Not because of the actual games, but thanks to the drama between LeBron James and Stephen A. Smith. While many may hold opinions, Charles Barkley’s words were loud. Weighing in on the situation, Barkley didn’t think either side came out looking good, but he had a strong take on LeBron’s approach. “LeBron, he’s too big to be that type of bully,” he said.

Moreover, Barkley took issue with how James went after the media, particularly Brian Windhorst and Smith. “To bully Stephen A., to bully Brian Windhorst. Brian Windhorst is a sweet person, man,” Barkley pointed out, adding that he wasn’t impressed with how James handled things. Barkley, despite his respect for LeBron, disapproved of his actions. However, he also didn’t let Smith off the hook, calling his reaction “so lame and weak.”

While Barkley criticized LeBron’s handling of the media, Gilbert Arenas took a different approach. Rather than reacting to criticism, he anticipated it. “No, I understood media early. You know, I usually beat them to the punch,” he said, revealing that he’d rather call out his own bad games before reporters could. “I was like, I know why you guys are here. I was four for 17. So, let’s just get right to it.” Arenas’ approach was simple: control the narrative before the media could spin it.

Arenas fully supported LeBron’s efforts to get Bronny drafted so they could share the court. “No one ever played with their kid,” he said. “But what if you were in the league and your son was able to go into the NBA, and you had that wealth of power?” He saw it as a rare opportunity that any player in LeBron’s position would take advantage of.

And Arenas made it clear—he’d do the exact same thing for his own son, Alijah. “I would have did the same thing,” he admitted. “Let’s just be honest. Every parent would have did the same thing.” Given his involvement in Alijah’s development, he ensures his son seizes every opportunity to succeed.

Alijah Arenas shows love for dad Gilbert’s mentorship

Alijah Arenas made his mark at the McDonald’s All-American game, competing against top high school prospects. But when asked about the biggest lesson Gilbert Arenas has passed down, Alijah didn’t talk about flashy moves or scoring records. Instead, he emphasized the importance of passion and dedication.

“We talk a lot, but something that sinks in was to love what you do and really work hard for it,” Alijah shared. “There are so many reasons why you could love this game, but as long as you work hard, all those reasons could come true.”

Meanwhile, Gilbert’s wife, Melli Monaco, couldn’t hide her pride. She reposted the interview clip on Instagram, adding, “Media train & all. His daddy taught him.”

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Alijah dominated at Chatsworth High, earning a five-star recruit status. He reclassified to the 2025 class and committed to USC, where he’ll begin his college career. Alijah Arenas’ NBA future is still unwritten, but with Gilbert Arenas mentoring him, he is following in his father’s footsteps.

As the next generation takes shape, one thing is clear: the NBA is evolving, and family ties are becoming more powerful than ever.