An ESPN braodcaster got roasted on social media for one comment he made about Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James.
ESPN’s Jay Bilas was the analyst for the network’s broadcast of Game 1 of the Western Conference first round game between the Lakers and Minnesota Timberwolves at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. Late in the fourth quarter, James complained after no call was made on a three-point attempt in which he felt he was fouled.
Bilas pointed out James’ displeasure with the no-call, then baffled many fans by claiming that James is not known for complaining about officiating.
“He’s not a complainer,” Bilas said of James.
“He’s NOT a complainer”
— BricksCenter (@BricksCenter) April 20, 2025
The commentator on LeBron 😂😂😂 pic.twitter.com/kOx2KEgRDD
Many were quick to wonder what Bilas was talking about.
Did he just say “LeBron is not a complainer?????“
— Paul Lambert (@MeatSauce1) April 20, 2025
ESPN commentators just say LeBron “not a complainer” ????? pic.twitter.com/U1xvVlQbv6
— blonded 💫 (@BlondedDynasty) April 20, 2025
I know Jay Bilas doesn’t do a lot of NBA games…
— Ryan McIntyre (@Moneyline_Mac) April 20, 2025
But did he seriously just say LeBron isn’t a complainer for calls!? 😂
Jay Bilas “he’s not a complainer” referring to LeBron.
— Metso (@metso13) April 20, 2025
Also LeBron… pic.twitter.com/KmLcoM55qj
While it can sometimes be justified on James’ part, few would agree that he does not complain about officiating. It is not even a criticism to say that James works officials, just as most other players do. Nobody was buying Bilas’ comment on this one. That probably will not bother Bilas, who is perfectly willing to court controversy with his commentary.
James scored 19 points in Saturday’s losing effort, and he only got to the free throw line twice. Perhaps that was a big part of why he was so frustrated.
