What Rich Paul thinks of claims about LeBron James’ unhappiness after major career accolade

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Rich Paul has pushed back on claims that LeBron James was upset over a signed basketball after reaching another major career milestone.

The story started after a Los Angeles Lakers postgame moment created debate over who should have received a commemorative game ball.

Some took it as a sign that LeBron felt overlooked. Paul, however, made it clear he thinks the reaction went too far.

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Rich Paul shuts down LeBron James signed-ball drama

On an episode of The Game Over podcast, Rich Paul dismissed the idea that LeBron James would be disgruntled over one basketball or one accolade.

“I think people are reading too much into the signed ball. I never in my life seen LeBron get disgruntled about a basketball or some type of accolade,” Paul said.

He added, “I can’t tell you how many player of week, player of the month, MVPs, Gold Medal, trophies dating back to 1992. This man got so many awards. Another basketball?”

Paul’s point was simple. LeBron has spent more than two decades collecting awards, trophies, medals, signed memorabilia, and historic milestones.

Because of that, Paul did not believe it made sense to frame one game ball as something that would seriously bother him.

It was a direct response to speculation that James felt slighted after the Lakers gave a ceremonial ball to for his 100th career coaching win.