Is LeBron James one of the most successful players in the NBA? That’s not even a question anymore. With 20 NBA All-Star appearances and years of leading jersey sales, it’s clear why people call him The King. Everyone wants to be like James, but that’s not easy. The 39-year-old is a once-in-a-generation talent. However, catching or feeling a glimpse of his fame could be a possibility. You don’t believe it? Well, ask Patrick Beverley. The once-Milwaukee Bucks point guard is experiencing unprecedented fame in his first season outside of America.

Patrick Beverley has set his sights on success in the BKT EuroCup. After nearly two decades in the game, he’s moved between teams often, sparking debates. But with his experience, Beverley knows the sport well. He said, “Steph Currys, LeBron Jameses, Kobe Bryants, Michael Jordans, those guys come all the time. We might not understand it…Only one Draymond Green. Only one Pat Bev. One Dennis Rodman.” This statement had sparked outrage. Now, Beverley has given fans another reason to be amazed.

In late July, Patrick Beverley signed for Hapoel Tel Aviv B.C., thus leaving the NBA for EuroCup Basketball. Meanwhile, it seems like the 36-year-old has found unreal fame in his new team. Sharing a glimpse of emotions, Pat Bev, spoke on his growing popularity overseas. During an episode of the Pat Bev Pod, the now-Hapoel hooper said: “I know how he [LeBron James] feels,” Beverly said. “I leave games and the guys I play against want pictures… there’s 30 kids outside and they all want pictures.” Looks like everyone is standing in queue to get pictures with Pat! No wonder, he understands what King James feels like on the court and off the same.

Unfortunately, Pat’s claims aren’t convincing the fans. They believe there’s no comparing LeBron James and Patrick Beverley. Just like there can’t be multiple Stephen Currys or Kobe Bryants. As always, fans have flooded social media, voicing their thoughts on Pat Bev’s comments.

Fans frenzy over Patrick Beverley’s claims of LeBron James-like fame in new league

Bleacher Report was among the first ones to share Pat Bev’s experiences at Hapoel. Most of the fans aren’t ready to believe a single word of the Chicago native. Beverley’s debut in the NBA happened much later in 2011, before which he was already a star in Europe. Therefore, even if his claims are true, it won’t be so surprising. However, a fan retorted: “Bro thinks he’s the Lebron of Europe 😭.” Let’s make one fact clear: there can be no comparisons between James’ stats and Patrick Beverley’s stats. In his 12 seasons, Bev made 3x NBA All-Defensive team, averaging 8.3 points. On the other hand, LeBron James is a 20x NBA All-Star with an average of 27.1 points!

Well, someone reminded the audience: “He’s won Euro League MVP before 🤦🏽‍♂️😂😂.”  Yes, this is true. Before Patrick Beverley joined the NBA with the Houston Rockets, he was playing for Spartak St.Petersburg. During his one-season stint, Pat Bev was selected as the EuroCup MVP for the 2011-12 season. Beverley dominated throughout the season as he led his team to a spot in the EuroCup semifinals. He was a team leader in scoring, steals, and more. Still, this commendable stat isn’t enough to impress the fans.

Another fan said: “Gotta love pat man.” Sadly, Patrick’s overseas debut did not go as planned. In his first game for the Hapoel Tel Aviv B.C, the former Bucks’ star, couldn’t score more than three points. He clogged six assists in the 15 minutes of play as well. Meanwhile, his team won the friendly match with ease, Patrick Beverley’s first game could’ve been better, according to fans.

“Let’s all just be happy for Pat…😂😂😂.” After an underwhelming start to the EuroCup 2024-25, claims of understanding LeBron’s feelings seem too much of a stretch.  Moreover, the reason behind Pat Bev’s Hapoel signing remains a secret. Reports say the team has offered a $4 million deal for the NBA veteran. But anyway, he’s finding the delights of American basketball across the Atlantic as well. Good for Patrick Beverley!

Meanwhile, someone commented: “Pat Bev is closer to Bronny James than Lebron James.” Who’s Bronny James? Well, of course, LeBron’s son. He’s already drafted for the 2024 season with the Lakers. Imagine, Junior LeBron playing alongside his dad. The 19YO has a long way to go, and so does Patrick Beverley according to fans. A long journey, before being close to the King of the Courts.

As you can guess already, Pat Bev is in some hot waters right now. Surely, he has his thoughts and opinions. However, they’re not sitting with the fans’ minds. Therefore, the persistent backlash. It will be a one-of-a-kind sight to see if Patrick comes up with any sort of damage control which is most unlikely. But, let’s see what surprises await.