For NBA players, their fans mean a lot. While some of them take out the team to interact with their fans, some choose to ignore them and get on with their work. And it is natural that the players aren’t in the right head-space at all times. After all, they are human. However, a few seconds for the players become a lifelong memory for fans. So only the humble players realize how a few seconds of their time could change people’s lives. And of course, among them is the King of the NBA, LeBron James.
LeBron almost never ignores his fans. Moreover, he even selectively responds to the hate he receives from NBA fans. However, the humble king always appreciates the love he receives from his fans.
LeBron hooked this fan up with his game-worn shoes 🥺 @brkicks
(via thebullyzsource/IG) pic.twitter.com/WcCBk9GvEK
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) October 15, 2021
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The magic of a simple wink from LeBron James
After the pre-season game between Sacramento Kings and the Los Angeles Lakers, LeBron James made an extremely sweet gesture. He spotted a little fan sitting in the front row with his Number 6 Lakers jersey on. He gave his game-worn shoes to him and winked at him.
The little boy got too excited and punched the air in gratitude, as seen in the clip above. LeBron usually loves interacting with his fans. But he also calls them out on their misconduct. So he feels the players deserve a relationship of mutual respect with their fans. Even if they are from opposing teams.
In lieu of the pandemic, one of the key things that all the players missed in the Orlando Bubble were fans. So why are fans so important to the NBA players?
Importance of fans to players in the NBA
A player’s career is decided not only by his skills but also by his relationship with the fans of the franchise. For example, Blake Griffin’s stint at Detroit was majorly unproductive because he did not have the backing of the fans to push him to perform to his best potential.
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Similarly, LeBron needed the physical presence of fans to feel the confidence he usually does on the court. Fans are who make the spirit of the game more exciting. Players owe their careers to their fans who pay to see them.
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It is humbling to see the King lead by example on how the league should treat it’s fans.
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