NBA Rigged? LeBron’s Draft Comment Raises Eyebrows [WATCH]

NBA superstar LeBron James hinted at the possibility of a rigged 2003 NBA Draft lottery during his latest appearance on the Pat McAfee Show.

James, who was selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers with the No. 1 overall pick in that draft, raised doubts about the fairness of the lottery process when discussing how he ended up with his hometown team.

During the interview, James commented on the 2003 Draft lottery, which saw Cleveland secure the top pick and select him.

Elon Musk Called This Financial News ‘Terrifying’

“Listen man, during the ball drop, during the lottery drop. Cleveland got the No. 1 pick, that’s––I just don’t think that was… What a coincidence, huh?” James said, casting suspicion on the event.

He continued, “Let’s keep LeBron home. You know what? Patrick Ewing to the Knicks, Derrick Rose to the Bulls. I understand the assignment, guys.”

James was referencing the fact that former NBA stars Patrick Ewing and Derrick Rose were drafted by teams in their hometowns—Ewing was selected by the New York Knicks, and Rose was chosen by the Chicago Bulls, his hometown team.

FREE Concealed Carry Gun Laws & Reciprocity Map

James’ comments during the Wednesday show sparked reactions from McAfee and his team, who appeared taken aback by the implication that external forces might have played a role in his career path.

The 2003 NBA Draft was widely regarded as one of the most impactful in history, with LeBron James going on to have a legendary career.

However, his remarks bring into question the legitimacy of the lottery system that determined his landing spot with Cleveland, one of the league’s more struggling franchises at the time.

In recent years, James has become a prominent public figure, not just in sports but also in politics.

He has consistently used his platform to speak on social issues and align himself with the Democratic Party.

Most recently, James publicly endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for president in the 2024 election, marking his active participation in political discourse.

Although James has not directly accused the NBA of rigging the draft, his suggestion that the lottery may not have been entirely above board raises questions about the integrity of the process.

Whether or not the NBA draft is indeed subject to manipulation, James’ comments serve as a reminder of the powerful influence that the draft process has in shaping the careers of players and the teams they join.

James’ remarks also come at a time when the NBA’s draft lottery system is under increasing scrutiny.

While the league maintains that the lottery is a fair and random process, conspiracy theories have long surrounded the draft, with critics suggesting that it may not always be as transparent as it appears.

For now, LeBron James’ comments remain just that—suggestions.

However, they offer a glimpse into the mind of one of the most influential athletes of his generation, who has not only dominated the basketball court but also used his voice to address issues both within and outside of sports.

Whether his remarks about the 2003 draft will spark further conversation or be dismissed as casual banter remains to be seen.

American Made Patriotic Apparel – Save 15% with Promo Code MERICA

The opinions expressed by contributors and/or content partners are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of LifeZette. Contact us for guidelines on submitting your own commentary.