LeBron James’ Message to Israel at NBA All Star Game Ignites Firestorm of Backlash
The Lakers superstar praised Israeli player Deni Avdija and expressed a desire to visit the country, sparking intense online criticism amid the ongoing Gaza conflict
LeBron James walked into NBA All-Star Weekend media availability expecting questions about basketball. He left at the center of a geopolitical firestorm.
“I’ve been quoted on Deni already,” James said. “I said I believe he was an All Star and I mean, he was an All-Star. He’s playing exceptional basketball. So that’s that” .
The Backlash
British-American commentator Mehdi Hasan didn’t mince words, posting on X: “What a disgrace LeBron is” . He was reposting Al Jazeera journalist Laila Al-Arian, who had written: “The entire human rights community: Israel is an apartheid state committing genocide and ethnic cleansing.
American influencer Hasan Piker offered a brutal assessment: “he said hope i inspire israel to be great (at killing children) my goat is WASHED” .
The criticism centered on the timing and context. According to the Gaza Health Ministry, at least 71,662 people in Gaza have been killed by Israeli military action since October 7, 2023 a figure Israel has accepted .
The Defense
Not everyone condemned James’ remarks. Some defended his right to respond to a direct question without wading into geopolitical complexities.
“Absolutely nothing wrong with this answer,” one user posted. “What an amazing answer for a clearly set up question, wow” .
James’ History with Political Questions
This isn’t the first time James has navigated politically charged media moments. In 2019, he criticized then-Rockets GM Daryl Morey for tweeting support of Hong Kong protesters a move that drew severe backlash from the Chinese government .
At the time, James offered a philosophy that explains his approach Sunday: “Obviously, it’s a tough situation that we’re all in right now… I think when an issue comes up.
Avdija’s Historic Moment
Lost in the controversy was Avdija’s achievement. The 24-year-old forward became the first Israeli player in NBA history to participate in an All-Star Game, wearing a jersey adorned with the Israeli flag during Team World’s two matches .
“Representing Israel on this stage is already an honor,” Avdija said post-game. “My ambition is to continue participating in the All-Star Game, improve as a player, and push my limits.
The Bottom Line
LeBron James answered a reporter’s question. He praised an NBA player’s accomplishments. He expressed generic goodwill toward fans in another country. He did not endorse any government, any policy, or any military action.
But in today’s hyperconnected, hyperpolarized world, that may not matter. The backlash has arrived. The clips are circulating. And James, as of this writing, has not responded.