LeBron James is in the news for reasons other than his basketball prowess. Recently, in an interview, the NBA GOAT made a few comments on WNBA player Brittney Griner’s detention in Russia. Moreover, Shannon Sharpe shared how he feels about LeBron making comments on the issue.

Owing to his comments against the efforts made by the U.S. government to free Griner, James became a part of severe backlash on social media. Even though he apologized later, Sharpe believes that criticism is bound to be received.

The 3x Super Bowl champion Sharpe felt athletes like LeBron must have thick skin. In situations where players comment on difficult subjects, they must accept criticism regardless of who they are, specifically when the subject deals with the national government.

Reflecting on his statements in the trailer of his TV show, LeBron James issued a clarification. He said he did not mean to critique the efforts made by the government to release the WNBA player.

What does Shannon Sharpe say in support of LeBron James?

Sharpe discussed many aspects of why athletes get criticized for touching on sensitive subjects. On his show, UNDISPUTED with Skip and Shannon. He said, “LeBron understands that criticism that is gonna come when he touch subjects like this. And you gotta have thick skin Skip.”

Also Read: LeBron James Gets Emotional as Former Cavs Teammate Kevin Love Marries His Best Friend in a Gorgeous Ceremony

He also draws an analogy to explain why LeBron got the criticism. He said, “You got to have it. If you gon weigh in and deal with something outside your genre, the criticism is gon come. Imagine if Denzel [Washington] tried to make an album. As much as many people love Denzel, he is gon get criticism.”

While the NBA star gets some support from Shannon, his comments started a flurry of criticism in the US. He apologized for the comments and hoped to move on from them.

Watch This Story: How old was LeBron James in his first NBA finals?