Is LeBron James betraying the NBA? Doug Gottlieb goes off on the King as opinions split

The NBA is no stranger to media tremors, but what happened this summer with LeBron James felt more like an earthquake—with its epicenter in Europe. The meeting between the Lakers star and Misko Raznatovic, agent of Nikola Jokic, sparked a wave of speculation. One of the loudest rumors? The possible creation of a global basketball league to rival the NBA, backed by international investors and offering players equity stakes.

Raznatovic’s Instagram post, teasing “something big coming in the fall of 2026,” only added fuel to the fire. Questions started flying everywhere. Is LeBron James planning a basketball revolution just as his contract with the Lakers expires? Is this a pressure tactic aimed at the NBA, or a visionary move for the future of players?

Intense debate

Outlets like The Sports Rush picked up statements that further intensified the debate—and the criticism. Doug Gottlieb, sports commentator and college coach, didn’t hold back on DreamersPro. “LeBron James has never cared about Lakers fans or being part of that culture,” he said. He also accused James of lacking loyalty to Miami and Cleveland, cities where he left a legacy and won championships.

While Gottlieb hits some emotional chords, his take feels one-sided. LeBron James is more than just a player—he’s carved his own path. From his departure from Cleveland in 2010 to his triumphant return in 2014, and through his golden years in Miami, James has shown he understands the business of sports like few others.

Doug Gottlieb says Lebron never cared about the Lakers, the Heat, the Cavaliers or Anybody else but himself or his inner circle:

“Lebron has never cared about Laker fans or being a Laker, He clearly doesnt care about being a Miami Heat, and doesnt care about Cleveland because he… pic.twitter.com/EEBPqIVRbQ

— TheTruth (@Thetruth8240) August 2, 2025

His lifetime deal with Nike, his investments in media and tech, and his role as a Hollywood producer place LeBron James in a different league. He’s an athlete, yes—but also a businessman.

Criticism everywhere

But Gottlieb’s critique isn’t isolated. Many see LeBron James as a polarizing figure. On one hand, he’s admired for his talent; on the other, he’s questioned for his decisions. His former teammate Richard Jefferson, however, sees things differently: “LeBron loves this conversation,” he said on the Road Trippin podcast. For Jefferson, James thrives on media buzz and knows how to use it to his advantage.

 

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

 

Una publicación compartida de Miško Ražnatović (@misko4raznatovic)

The idea of a new league isn’t far-fetched. In a climate where stars like Steph Curry have called for greater equity in team ownership, Raznatovic’s model could be appealing. If players become partners instead of just employees, the professional basketball landscape could shift dramatically.

Whether LeBron James is actively involved in these talks or not, one thing’s clear: he’s once again at the center of the conversation. And that, in itself, is another win.