“I Did Absolutely Nothing Wrong”: LeBron James on Being Kicked Out of Practice by Ex-Coach in High School

LeBron James, known as the Chosen One since his high school days has seamlessly transitioned into a revered figure in the NBA. His journey from a high school player to a basketball legend provides lessons on overcoming the hurdles of achieving success in the league at a young age. During a conversation with JJ Redick on their Mind the Game podcast LeBron James shared insights, into what it takes for a young player to thrive in the league.

Reflecting on his formative years, LeBron emphasized the significant impact of his high school coach, Keith Dambrot. Dambrot’s approach infused collegiate-level intensity into their practices, shaping LeBron’s journey profoundly. Recalling a defining moment during his freshman year, LeBron vividly remembers being unexpectedly kicked out of practice by his coach. “I had no clue why the f*** he did it,” LeBron mused, highlighting the intensity and mystery of those formative experiences.

LeBron James’ reflection on Dambrot’s coaching style

LeBron James recounted how Dambrot’s coaching style was characterized by strictness and high demands, even to the extent of publicly criticizing his players, sparing no one, not even those whose parents attended practices. Reflecting on an incident from his sophomore year, James vividly described how Dambrot singled him out to make a powerful statement.

Recalling his standout performance in the previous season, where he was hailed as the MVP of the state championship. James entered his sophomore year with lofty expectations, projected to be a trailblazing figure in Ohio high school basketball history. However, during the first practice of the season, despite his anticipation, James found himself inexplicably ejected from the session.

As he puts it, “And the first practice we had our sophomore year in the Winter State Championship, I did absolutely nothing wrong coming out of football. He kicked me out of practice. I had no idea why the f**k he kicked me out of practice.”

It was a moment of profound disillusionment as he realized that Dambrot was determined to shatter any illusions of grandeur. Dambrot’s actions spoke volumes, delivering a blunt message that talent and accolades meant little without discipline and humility. As James puts it, “Best sophomore in the country, my a**.” It became clear that Dambrot’s coaching philosophy transcended mere basketball skills but was about forging character. Moreover, the outcome of his coach’s influence was evident.

How did James dominate in high school?

“He was like a sponge,” Dambrot tells Yahoo Sports about LeBron James. “He listened. He learned really well. He wanted to be better. He was just impressive, even at that young age.” The 4x NBA Champion met his high school coach as a 5-foot-10 13-year-old and flourished under him as a player and a leader.

Dambrot’s tough approach challenged James to continually push his limits, helping James average 21 points and 6 rebounds per game at St. Vincent–St. Mary High School. In doing so, he helped the team to three state championships while culminating 2,657 points, 892 rebounds, and 523 assists during his four years. In the process, James left an indelible mark on Ohio basketball history; running into the next phase as a top prospect and an example.

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