Kareem Abdul-Jabbar once again took aim at LeBron James over what Abdul-Jabbar sees as contradictory stances on social issues.
Abdul-Jabbar said Sunday he believes James has to hold himself to higher standards in how he acts due to his stardom, and that James has engaged in things that should be “beneath him.”
“Some of the things he’s done and said are really beneath him, as far as I can see,” Abdul-Jabbar said, via Dave McMenamin of ESPN. “Some of the great things that he’s done, he’s standing on both sides of the fence almost, you know? It makes it hard for me to accept that when he’s committed himself to a different take on everything. It’s hard to figure out where he’s standing. You’ve got to check him out every time.”
Abdul-Jabbar said he has not spoken personally with James about his criticisms, but would welcome the chance to do so.
“If he would take the time, I definitely got the time,” Abdul-Jabbar said. “I admire the things that he’s done that have gotten all our attention. Sending a whole school to college? Wow. That’s amazing. His thoughtfulness and willingness to back it up with his wallet, you got to give him credit for that. So I’m not throwing stones. I just wish he wouldn’t — you know, some of the things he’s done, he should be embarrassed about. That’s just where I’m coming from.”
This is not the first time James has been the target of criticism by Abdul-Jabbar. Earlier in the season, Abdul-Jabbar voiced his disapproval of one of James’ social media posts. At the time, James was dismissive of that criticism, so the offer to discuss things might not be on his agenda. Kareem has also been critical of James for a celebration the Lakers forward did this season.
UPDATE: Kareem later put out a statement regarding his criticism of James.
“Today a reporter asked me a question about Lebron James and I regret my off-handed response which has been blown out of proportion. For years I’ve expressed my deep admiration and respect for LeBron as a community leader and athlete. That hasn’t changed and never will.”
Photo: Feb 16, 2014; New Orleans, LA, USA; NBA legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar speaks as Clyde Drexler looks during the 2014 NBA All-Game Legends Brunch at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
