LeBron James entered the NBA straight out of high school. He was 18 years old. From the moment he declared for the draft, the media hyped him up as the next great NBA player.
He faced a mountain of pressure to not only be an elite player but to be among the best that ever played.
“To be quite honest with you, everybody wanted to see me fail when I got to the league,” James said. “Everybody was just like it’s no way he’s going to be able to exceed the expectations that’s put upon him … That expectation on an 18-year-old kid. That was insane … I wish that on no kid, in no sport, to have this type of pressure put on them and everyone wanting to see you fail.”
On Saturday, LeBron James became the first player in NBA history to score 40,000 points. He’s the NBA’s all-time leader in points scored. He’s fourth all-time in assists. And he’s eighth all-time in steals. Not only has LeBron reached the expectations put on his shoulders, he’s exceeded them.
However, LeBron is reflecting on how his rise through the NBA unfolded. The pressure from the media and NBA fans around the world undoubtedly weighed heavy.
At 18 years old, he had to prove he could rapidly become the face of the NBA. Now, he’s one of the most recognizable household names on the planet.
In sports, there will always be another transcendent star. Right now, it appears that’s going to be Victor Wembanyama.
LeBron has walked the tightrope of being a superstar with poise and expertise. He’s a wholesome family man who has made smart business decisions off the court and honored his contracts throughout his career. His experiences will help the next generation of stars to navigate the pressures of the NBA.
Still, the fact LeBron has been at the top of the mountain for over 20 years and is only now speaking on the pitfalls of the pressure he faced is incredible.
Now that he’s set another record, LeBron will likely turn his attention back toward attempting to win another championship ring. His legacy continues to be written. There are likely a few more chapters left.
