LeBron James Explains Why He Sides with Players Who Don’t Want to Be the ‘Face of’ the NBA

LeBron James Explains Why He Sides with Players Who Don’t Want to Be the ‘Face of’ the NBA

Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James recently shared his perspective on why he understands and supports players who prefer not to take on the immense responsibility of being the “face of the NBA.” In a league that has long relied on marquee superstars to drive its popularity, LeBron’s comments provide insight into the pressures and challenges that come with that title.

Speaking to the media, LeBron acknowledged that while being the face of the NBA is an honor, it also comes with a unique set of challenges that not every player wants—or should be expected—to embrace.

“I totally understand why some guys don’t want to be the face of the league,” James said. “It’s a lot. It’s not just about playing basketball at the highest level—it’s everything that comes with it. The expectations, the criticism, the responsibilities, and the constant spotlight. Not everyone wants that, and that’s okay.”

LeBron, who has been the league’s most recognizable figure for nearly two decades, understands better than most the level of scrutiny and pressure that comes with being the NBA’s biggest star. From media obligations and public appearances to social justice activism and business ventures, being the face of the league means carrying an immense workload beyond the game itself.

LeBron’s comments come at a time when players like Kawhi Leonard, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Nikola Jokić have openly expressed a preference for letting their play do the talking rather than embracing the limelight. Jokić, in particular, has been vocal about his love for basketball but not the celebrity lifestyle that often comes with being a dominant player.

“I respect guys like Jokić who just want to hoop and go home,” LeBron said. “Not everyone wants the extra attention, and I don’t think they should be forced into it.”

This sentiment echoes a growing shift in the NBA, where more players are prioritizing mental health, personal boundaries, and a focus on their craft rather than the expectations of global superstardom.

Historically, the NBA has relied on larger-than-life figures to market the league, from Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant to LeBron himself. But with the rise of social media and 24/7 sports coverage, the pressure on modern stars is arguably greater than ever before.

LeBron’s own career has been a testament to what it takes to embrace that responsibility. Since entering the league as an 18-year-old prodigy, he has handled the spotlight with grace, balancing championship aspirations with off-court ventures, philanthropy, and activism.

However, he acknowledges that the burden is not for everyone. “I don’t think less of any player who doesn’t want to be the face of the league,” James said. “You can still be great and impactful without having to carry that weight.”

LeBron’s words reflect a broader movement in sports where leadership is no longer confined to the loudest voices or biggest brands. Stars like Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant have taken different approaches to their influence, and players like Jokić and Leonard have shown that dominance on the court doesn’t always require dominance in the media.

By supporting players who choose to focus solely on their craft, LeBron is reinforcing the idea that greatness comes in many forms. Whether a player wants to be the face of the NBA or simply contribute to their team’s success, there is space for both approaches in today’s game.

As LeBron continues his legendary career, his perspective on leadership, pressure, and individuality serves as a reminder that basketball is, at its core, about the love of the game—regardless of the spotlight.