Knicks Star Once Humbled LeBron James After Public Dispute: “I’d rather own than be owned”

LeBron James has been in the NBA for a long time now and has won four championships with three different teams. However, in his first stint with the Cavaliers, James failed to win any championships. But he came back to win a championship with his former team. James’ stint with the Cavaliers was a roller coaster ride.

King James had his moments as a player and excelled on an individual level. But he couldn’t deliver a championship in his first stint with the Cavs. But he was among the best players in the NBA at that time and was also an elite trash-talker.

He has several trash-talking incidents from his Cavs days. However, nothing beats his ‘shoe war’ with Stephon Marbury. James is a Nike athlete, and he has endorsed the same brand for a long time. But Stephon Marbury once humbled him after a public feud related to shoes.

LeBron James and Stephon Marbury’s 2007 shoe war

Ahead of the game vs. the Knicks in 2007, James commented on Marbury’s discounted shoe line for kids.

“Growing up in the inner city, at times families can’t afford $120 shoes. It’s definitely smart on their part,” James said.

“Me being with Nike; we hold our standards high. And we do a great job of putting out great merchandise, great shoes. It does come with a price that is pretty high, but at the same time, you’re getting great quality for it.”

Marbury, who was with the Knicks at that time, clearly didn’t like the statement. The Knicks ended up winning the game 97-93. Marbury then took a dig at LeBron and humbled him.

“I laughed. I’d rather own than be owned,” Marbury said after the remarks.

“When he retires, he’s not going to own anything. I don’t think he did his homework. We’re putting out the same stuff he’s putting out, just at an affordable price. But I understand that he’s got to say that because it’s part of the business.”

However, the Cavaliers finished the 2006-07 season as 2nd in the eastern conference. The Cavs, led by a 22-year-old James, went on to reach the Finals. However, San Antonio Spurs won the Finals 4-0. The Cavs won’t make it to the Finals until LeBron James returned to the city from Miami.

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