LeBron deemed a potential response as a futile endeavor.
LeBron James delivered a response in classic LeBron fashion after NBA Hall of Famer Isiah Thomas criticized his shirtless warm-up routine. The exchange came shortly after the Los Angeles Lakers’ dominant 140-109 victory over the Houston Rockets.
Clearly catching wind of Thomas’s remarks on NBA TV, James took to X to share his thoughts—without directly naming Thomas. In the post, LeBron hinted that responding wasn’t worth his time, especially at this stage of his legendary career.
“Man I was going to say something but it’s useless at this point in my career!” he wrote.
Instead, he shifted the focus to a much more positive note, offering congratulations to the Lakers on reaching a major milestone.
“Anyways more important CONGRATULATIONS JJ on a 50 win season in the WEST & Post Season nod! That’s [emojis]“
The post subtly deflected the criticism while highlighting the Lakers’ playoff success, perfectly in line with LeBron’s seasoned, no-nonsense approach.
What Isiah Thomas said
Speaking during halftime on NBA TV, Thomas didn’t hold back.
“I totally 100% object to this,” he said. “And if I was the GM or coach I would never let one of my players walk out on the floor looking like this. I mean we’re a professional NBA league. We ain’t summer league. We ain’t at the YMCA.”
Thomas continued, expressing disappointment over what he sees as a decline in league standards.
“I just think the professionalism in our NBA league has diminished so much. Look, I like LeBron, I’m a fan of his, but to walk out on the floor before the game with no shirt on.”
Fans React to Thomas’ Criticism
Thomas’ comments quickly spread across social media.
Some backed his old-school take on professionalism, while others saw it as overblown — pointing out that pregame warmups have long included unique routines and expressions of player individuality.
