LeBron James Steps Away from Social Media Amidst Criticism

LeBron James, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer and a prominent figure on social media, announced his decision to take a hiatus from his online presence. The Los Angeles Lakers star conveyed this message to his millions of followers via X and Instagram, stating his intention to disengage «for the time being.»

James, who has 159 million followers on Instagram and 52.9 million on X, shared the announcement by re-posting a message from his longtime manager Rich Kleiman. Kleiman had earlier criticized the negative tone of sports coverage, suggesting platforms could play a role in fostering unity and positivity in society. James echoed this sentiment with captions like «Amen!!» and lamented what he described as a «damn shame» about the current state of affairs.

The decision to step back follows criticism that James faced after a recent assertion that he had been watching college games of a future teammate long before his team drafted the player, for which he was accused of lying. In response, James expressed frustration with the constant scrutiny he faces online. «Everybody on the internet called me a liar all the time,» he noted, highlighting the challenge of online interactions.

In reaction to James’s departure from social media, Jemele Hill, a former ESPN employee, defended his choice. Hill criticized the environment on X, describing it as «untenable» and filled with «racists, conspiracy theorists, and jerks.» She supported James’s move and emphasized the need to disengage from toxic exchanges online.

While James has opted to step away from social media, his basketball career remains vibrant. The Lakers have begun the 2024-2025 season with a strong record of 10-4, placing them third in the Western Conference. James continues to be not only a significant player on the court but also a figure of influence off it, as evidenced by his recent actions and the conversations they have sparked.