LeBron James, the legendary forward of the Los Angeles Lakers, recently revealed that he came dangerously close to stepping away from basketball to pursue a career in the NFL during the 2011 NBA lockout. In a candid conversation shared by DraftKings, James recounted how Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll made a compelling pitch to bring him into the football fold.
Reflecting on the 2010-11 NBA season, which was marred by a lockout, James recalled, “Pete Carroll was at Seattle. He reached out, actually sent me a jersey, told me to come to camp, told me to come out if you wanted a tryout, whatever the case may be.” For James, who had a storied high school career as a wide receiver, this offer was more than just a kind gesture; it was a tantalizing opportunity to explore his first love—football.
Growing up in Akron, Ohio, James excelled in both basketball and football, showcasing the athleticism and size that made him a standout wide receiver. The prospect of playing for the Seahawks during a time when his basketball career seemed uncertain was incredibly appealing. “That was a pretty cool moment for me because my love for football and my love for the NFL runs deep,” he shared. “I actually had begun doing more football training drills, to see if that was even a possibility.”
James admitted that the thought of switching sports was a serious consideration. “I continue to still have memories and dreams about playing a game of football because it was my first love,” he said. “It was a real consideration. It was a real consideration for sure.”
This wasn’t the first time James has revisited the idea of playing football. Earlier this year, he discussed it on the “New Heights” podcast hosted by NFL stars Travis and Jason Kelce. “The only time I’ve really taken it super-duper seriously was in 2011 when we had the NBA lockout,” he explained. “I didn’t know when we were going to make a deal with the owners and get our league back going, so I actually thought about it a little back then.”
Ultimately, the NBA lockout concluded, allowing James to return to the court and lead the Miami Heat to back-to-back championships in 2012 and 2013, solidifying his place in basketball history. However, the idea of James donning an NFL uniform continues to ignite debates among fans and analysts alike. Standing at 6-foot-9 with remarkable speed and agility, he could have been an unprecedented matchup as a tight end or wide receiver.
As the NBA season approaches, the conversation surrounding LeBron James remains vibrant, particularly with the ongoing discussions about the future of the Lakers and potential roster changes. With Luka Doncic now a significant focus for the team, the question arises: Can Doncic help the Lakers reclaim their championship glory? NBA analysts and legends are weighing in, and the excitement is palpable.
In addition to the ongoing discussions about Doncic, James has also been vocal about other matters, including a recent playful exchange with comedian Kevin Hart over a golf challenge. “I’m going to kick his ass,” James confidently declared, showcasing his competitive spirit that extends beyond the basketball court.
As the Lakers prepare for the upcoming season, the franchise is also keeping an eye on the performances of its players in international competitions, such as EuroBasket, where Doncic’s stellar play has raised eyebrows. Lakers’ general manager Rob Pelinka has expressed optimism, stating, “Best player on the planet” talk is warranted, given Doncic’s exceptional skills.
In summary, LeBron James’ near transition to the NFL during the 2011 lockout highlights his multifaceted athletic abilities and love for football. As he continues to dominate the NBA, the discussions around his legacy, the Lakers’ future, and potential championship runs remain at the forefront of basketball conversations in the United States. Fans eagerly await the new season, hoping for a blend of history and excitement as James and his teammates aim for another title run.