NBA fans are split once again, this time after LA Lakers governor Jeanie Buss addressed reports about her relationship with LeBron James.
The reaction stems from an article by ESPN’s Baxter Holmes, which claimed Buss had grown frustrated with James and even considered not extending his contract back in 2022. The report also stated that Buss felt James’ agency, Klutch Sports, held too much influence within the organization and that James often received most of the credit for “saving” the franchise.
Buss responded soon after, issuing a statement to The Athletic through Sam Amick.
“It’s really not right, given all the great things LeBron has done for the Lakers, that he has to be pulled into my family drama. To say that it wasn’t appreciated is just not true and completely unfair to him.”
While Buss appeared to shut down the claims and defend James, not everyone was convinced.
@BSaarX questioned the praise, saying, “What has LeBron done? Won a bubble championship and made the team waste a spot for Bronny?”
What has LeBron done? Won a bubble championship and made the team waste a spot for Bronny?
— Brandon S (@BSaarX) January 22, 2026
@DswWright suggested there was more behind the timing, adding, “Rich Paul must have called Jeanie. Now she on her PR campaign.”
Still, some fans sided with Buss. @iamankitpande wrote, “Jeanie coming in hot to defend LeBron from the family soap opera spillover. Classy move, dude’s done enough for the org without getting dragged into Buss drama.”
As the Buss family continues dealing with internal issues, James and the Lakers remain focused on basketball. Los Angeles currently sits fifth in the Western Conference with a 26-16 record as they chase what would be the franchise’s 19th NBA championship.
“An era is coming to an end”: NBA fans become sentimental after LeBron James misses his 22nd All-Star start
Before the off-court chatter gained traction, James faced another moment that hit fans emotionally.
The NBA released its All-Star voting results on Monday, revealing that James would not start the game for the first time in his career. He ranked eighth among fans and players, and tenth with the media panel.
For many fans, it felt symbolic.
@MrDwein said, “An era is coming to an end.”
@thee_alfa_house added, “Unc James is seeing his last days. It’s now a concluded debate why MJ is better.”
And @HoopSpaces urged fans to take it in while they can, saying, “Start buying the tickets now if you have never seen him in person before..”
Between the headlines and the milestones, the conversation around James continues to grow louder — and more emotional.
