LeBron James is one of the most respected players the NBA has ever had. He has cemented himself as an all-time great and respected voice around the league. King James is arguably the greatest player ever, but he also has a case for being among the best leaders.
The four-time Finals MVP has been a trusted voice in every locker room he has been part of while also serving as an important voice off the court. Bron developed his leadership as he matured because of his responsibilities as a franchise superstar.
"Some people were born with it, but some people learn it as well. For me, as the leader of our franchise and the leader of my household and the leader of so many different things, I think it's about confidence but also practicing what you preach," Bron said to Business Insider in 2016.
James thinks accountability is crucial
Across his 20+ years in the league, LeBron has learned how to approach basketball. He knows that having the right attitude is a key part of playing the sport because people cannot see the chemistry fostered in the huddles, locker room, and during practice.
With that, James knows that being a leader requires demanding accountability from every person on the team. The Ohio native knows how to take accountability, especially with his responsibility as the superstar and leader. He takes it upon himself to be the most prominent player who will get the criticism, but the rest of the team should do it.
Anyone who makes a mistake should take accountability because the four-time MVP will do the same as soon as possible. He is not shy from calling himself out because Bron knows what he can do since making mistakes is uncharacteristic. He expects this to happen when he and his son, Bronny James , play together in the 2024/25 season.
Leading by example is also a big deal for LeBron, as he knows his teammates have the talent and skill to keep up with him. Being the man who plays well at the forefront means the rest of the team will follow in his footsteps. Considering his preference to be a playmaker rather than a scorer, this tracks because he wants the team to play well more than himself.
Related: "I stay away from him when I'm walking" - Michael Jordan named the only athlete he ever feared
Bron will be remembered as one of the best leaders
As James winds down his career, the basketball community should remember that he is one of the game's greatest leaders. Winning championships and Finals MVPs with three different franchises should get the credit for being an all-time great leader.
"When you're able to come through on your word, it allows the guys that you're leading, male or female, to be able to say, 'OK. We can follow this person because he won't let us down. No matter if it's going good or bad,'" James continued in his interview. "Every day is not a bed of roses. We understand that. And you have to be able to handle adversity as well."
That approach to leadership is what makes LeBron such a good example for other basketball players. He might have high standards, but he understands what everyone goes through, so having that awareness and leadership skills make him one of the best players to follow.
Related: Terrence Ross on why he thinks LeBron is better than MJ: "The second time he came back, he was not the same player"
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