LeBron James, the star player of the Los Angeles Lakers, has played several dominant seasons with the team. The 39-year-old has been involved in heated arguments with many players on the court. One notable incident occurred during the 2021-22 NBA season when James got into an altercation with one of the Lakers’ coaches.
During a crucial game against the Minnesota Timberwolves in January 2022, James was seen arguing with the assistant coach, Phil Handy. According to the video posted by LegendZ on X, the all-time points leader, who was the worst Midrange shooter of the 2023-24 NBA season, attempted to score points at the end of the second quarter but was unable to do so because of Handy.
LeBron James: “Hey Phil, Hey Phil. Why couldn’t you wait until halftime though coach? He was wide open right now for a layup.”
Phil Handy: “He was talking to me.“
LeBron James: “Leave him alone until f***ing halftime.“
Phil Handy: “Don’t be coming at me like that.“
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LeBron James: “You’re always f***ing with everybody, bro? Why couldn’t you wait until f***ing halftime?“
Despite the altercation in the second quarter, the Lakers managed to secure a 108-103 victory against the Timberwolves. NBA fans agreed with James and posted several reactions in the comment section.
What Sparked the Showdown: Unraveling the James vs. Handy Drama
During halftime, with only a few seconds remaining, James grabbed the ball after a Minnesota free throw and attempted to pass it to Avery Bradley. However, Bradley was distracted because Handy was talking to him. Consequently, James passed the ball to Trevor Ariza, who failed to make a buzzer-beater.
The missed shot frustrated the 20-time NBA All-Star, who expressed his anger to Handy for distracting the players before halftime. James delivered several outstanding performances during that season. The four-time NBA champion averaged 30.3 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 6.2 assists in 56 games in the 2021-22 season.
Also Read: LeBron James Returns For 22nd NBA Season: Key Milestones Awaiting The Los Angeles Lakers Star
