It’s no secret that LeBron James is interested in owning an NBA team once his playing career is over. The fans know it, LeBron has talked about it and perhaps most importantly, Adam Silver knows it.
What better time for the commissioner to crack a joke at James’s expense than during the NBA Cup MVP presentation in the city where the Lakers star hopes to one day own a team?
“The last trophy, the MVP Cup for outstanding play throughout the entire tournament, to a man who quite frankly, there’s nothing else to win in this league. The only thing I can say is, ‘I’m sorry but it doesn’t come with a franchise.’ LeBron James, the MVP,” Silver said.
The joke had James doubled over laughing, while his teammates celebrated the well-earned honor.
LeBron James is the MVP of the NBA’s In-Season Tournament 🏆 pic.twitter.com/XrK9n8DfSF
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) December 10, 2023
James concluded his in-season tournament with another strong performance, scoring 24 points and adding 11 rebounds in the 123–109 win over the Pacers. James’s teammate, Anthony Davis, stole the show with a stat-sheet stuffing performance of his own, as he led all scorers with 41 points, while adding 20 rebounds, five assists and four blocks.
Although the Lakers’ end goal is the Larry O’Brien Trophy at season’s end, the inaugural NBA Cup title is certainly a nice feather in the team’s cap as they continue to progress through the regular season.
