LeBron James talking to Richard Jefferson (Photo via Twitter)
LeBron James has faced significant criticism throughout his NBA career. At times, he chooses to respond to his detractors, while on other occasions, he simply ignores the noise. However, the four-time NBA champion finds it difficult to stay silent when it comes to his family. This was evident when he confronted renowned sports analyst Stephen A. Smith, who had criticized his son, Bronny James, for his underwhelming rookie season.

Before Saturday’s game between the Lakers and the Boston Celtics, former NBA player Richard Jefferson had a brief conversation with LeBron. During their exchange, they touched on LeBron’s heated interaction with Smith. A leaked audio clip revealed snippets of their discussion, shedding light on LeBron’s frustration regarding the matter.

“That’s the only thing I’m tripping. I don’t give a f**k! Once he (Smith) talked about my son. I’m pleading you as a father,” James said.

Despite LeBron’s outburst, Stephen A. Smith later defended him, acknowledging that he understood the emotions of being a father. However, LeBron may not be willing to let go of the situation anytime soon.

Fans Slam LeBron James For Being An Overprotective Father

LeBron James (Photo by Brian Fluharty/Imagn Images)

After the audio release, NBA fans had much to say about LeBron James’ reaction. While some sympathized with his protective nature as a father, others criticized him for protecting his son.

Many pointed out that public scrutiny is inevitable as an NBA player, especially one with as much attention as Bronny. Some fans even questioned why LeBron needed to confront Smith over remarks about an adult son.

“LeProtective Father,” one user said.

“It is tough when parents ruin kids ability to fend for themselves in adult life. The hardest thing to do is let them fail and learn how to pick themselves up. In my opinion it needs to be done,” another commented.

“Bronny is an adult,” one person reminded us.

One user also reminded LeBron of his previous comments. “But you tweeted bronny better than some of the cats in the league??? Stand on business bro. Stephen A called out bronny for being ass. Cause he is. And you for pushing him when he wasn’t ready,” they stated.

Someone also found the “Pleading to you as a father” comment to be hilarious.

Statistically, Bronny’s performance so far has not done much to refute Smith’s take. The Lakers rookie has appeared in just 18 games, averaging a mere 1.4 points, 0.4 rebounds, and 0.4 assists per game. His most recent outing against the New Orleans Pelicans saw him contribute two points and one rebound in just four minutes of action.