LeBron James and Skip Bayless (Image Credits: Getty Images)

LeBron James, the Los Angeles Lakers star player, will start his 22nd season in a month and a half. The 39-year-old, who recently posted a heartfelt message for his son Bronny James, has gained a large number of supporters and fans throughout his professional career. Because of his remarkable skills and stellar achievements, James has often been praised by several analysts and players. However, the Lakers star also has a constant critic who has been criticizing him for a long time.

Skip Bayless, the American sports columnist and commentator, departed from Undisputed and Fox Sports 1 on August 2, 2024, after eight years on the network. However, he recently made some controversial statements on the latest episode of The Skip Bayless Show. Bayless mentioned that he will not hold back his words, which may have been directed towards James.

“I have waited a long time for this moment. I am finally free. Free to unleash in ways I never have. Free to give you every bit of me without boundaries or handcuffs or fear of suspension. I recently left FS1, an exit I had planned for several months because I wanted to do this. I wanted to be my own boss. To bet on me,” Bayless said.

Following his statement, basketball fans started making hilarious jokes about the long-standing James and Bayless controversy. Many fans believe that Bayless’ words are mainly directed towards James.

One fan said, “Bro about to call Bron the N word.”

Meanwhile, another fan said, “I’m not the only one thinking it right?”

Another fan mentioned, “He finally gonna call LeBron the hard R.”

Another fan made a joke about James, saying, “So just hating on LeBron in ways we couldn’t see before.”

Another fan joked, “Don’t be surprised if he calls LeBron a b*tch on his first episode lmao.“

Bayless Reflects On Career Advice To Mind His Words When Speaking about James

Bayless has been a longtime critic of LeBron James. Recently, while passing a window display in a mall, the NBA analyst took a picture of a Michael Jordan jersey on display in a store and posted it on social media. In his post, Bayless mentioned that James had “just stolen” the 2024 Paris Olympics MVP award from Stephen Curry and wrote that James still has to chase Jordan.

In a recent episode of his podcast, Bayless mentioned that during his 35-year career, he was constantly being told to be careful with his words. He stated that he is now free and will talk about anything he wants.

To break free from the TV networks I’ve worked for for 35 years. For 35 years, I’ve been told, ‘Don’t! Don’t! Don’t! Careful! and Careful! Careful!’ I’ve tiptoed, sidestepped, pulled punches…No more bosses with huge egos and hidden agendas. No more games that have to be played behind closed network doors. Now I’m free to be one thousand percent me.” Bayless added.

Despite Bayless’ criticism, LeBron James will continue to achieve more in his professional career. The 39-year-old signed a contract extension with the Lakers in the offseason. Additionally, his son Bronny James was selected by the Lakers in the 2024 NBA draft. Now, Bayless will have the opportunity to criticize the father-son duo in the next NBA season.