LeBron James and His Fans: Why They're Irritating

Anyone that has ever won anything; a spelling bee, a foot race, a district/regional/state/national title, a bowling title, or whatever, understands the feeling of accomplishment that comes with the trophy.

I have never found anyone who valued expectation over realization.

This is where we are with LeBron fans. They appear to want to bypass earning a title or even earning the “Best Player” tag and go straight to instant gratification.

Presently his Highness’ fans are patting themselves on the back for winning the 2011 NBA championship. This type of premature, unsubstantiated, drivel has become boorish.

LeBron and the Cavaliers were favored going into the playoffs for both of the last two seasons. When they lost LBJ’s fans suddenly acted as if his teammates had became “Smush” Parker and Kwame Brown clones. These guys had the best record in the NBA for two consecutive seasons.

My experience leads me to believe that the Cavs failure was due to an underprepared coach for that level of play (playoffs), and an absence of leadership on the court.

But LeBron's fans lamented “Poor LeBron if only he had some help“. On top of that, “dog ate my homework”, type of excuse they want to crown him the best player in the league. 

It's everyone's fault but LeBron's.

True, LBJ was born with a boatload of physical talent, but so was Charles Barkley, David Thompson and Darryl Dawkins. Each of these aforementioned players were exceptional in their God given gifts. And like LeBron, they have little to show for it as for as accomplishments are concerned.

Well, Dawkins is remembered for the pivoting basket rims that were created to prevent him from breaking any more backboards.

As basketball fans, we all like to see LBJ as well as Kevin Garnet, Dwight Howard, Steve Nash, etc. What gets tiring is using LBJ’s talent as a spotlight to shine alongside players who have actually used their talent to the fullest.

Garnet, Tim Duncan, Kobe Bryant, Dwayne Wade have won titles and have some type of legacy other than potential alone.

I have heard wait until next year from teams like the Chicago White Sox or the Boston Red Sox. But LeBron supporters celebration of unrealized potential and comparison to real winners as an equal has become truly irritating.

Presently, it has been reported that LBJ is speaking of himself in the third person. Someone please tell him to stop doing that. If he continues in that vein, he will start to resemble Dennis Rodman more than Magic Johnson.

There is a reason that champions and championships help make a players legacy. To win a title takes skill, perseverance (desire and mental toughness), a little luck (health), good coaching, leadership and a willingness to pay the physical price to achieve in athletics.

Even if LBJ never wins a title, fans can acknowledge his NBA records whether they come in assists, scoring, rebounding or public service.

Jordan was not recognized as the best until the early 90’s, a number of years after entering the league.

Patience and tenacity will be rewarded with accolades that are deserved.  But to do so right now is an insult to those who have suffered, bled and truly earned respect.

Today, the arrogance of LeBron and his fans is without cause and is a social gaffe.  When LeBron begins to set records and/or win championships, we will all acknowledge his achievements and applaud with his fans.  

Until that time comes, both his fans and LBJ alike would best be served by humility.