LeBron James Shades McDonald's, Remembers His Sponsorship Deal with the Company

LeBron James’ financial interests are tied up in just about any product that can be eaten, worn or applied to the human body.

This is to say, the man has a lot of endorsement deals, to the point where it’s difficult for James to remember exactly who is paying him to be the face of their products and franchise. 

Such was the case during a Tuesday media appearance, when James accidentally threw one of his bigger sponsors under the bus while speaking about his personal health regimen. Cleveland.com’s Joe Vardon (h/t Pro Basketball Talk’s Brett Pollakoff) reports that James implied the fast food chain McDonald's is unhealthy while answering a question from the media.

Asked when he first began seriously lifting weights, James proceeded to reel off a list of habits he’s changed since coming into the league.

“Ummm, 24,” James said. “I ate McDonald’s my first couple years in the NBA. I didn’t stretch. It didn’t matter. I was 18 and could do whatever I wanted to.” 

Reporters noted the remark and asked James when he had last eaten at McDonald’s. Realizing his error, James responded coyly. 

“Every day,” James said. “Every day. Every day....I had it this morning. Egg-and-sausage McMuffin. All day.”

Egg-and-sausage McMuffins all day! Sounds great in theory. I don’t know about in practice, but hey, you might win at Monopoly!

In any case, James will probably receive a gentle but concerned note from one of his #brand managers today about “optimizing” media appearances and never being candid about anything ever. 

Sigh. For one moment, the man formerly in the carbon mask let his guard down to answer an innocuous question, and it bit him in the neck.

Someone get James a McMuffin. The walk of fame is a lonely tightrope, and a man should at the least have the company of quick-heated breakfast sandwiches on this journey.

Dan is on Twitter. He is also hungry.