Throughout his career, LeBron James has never been the one to shy away from complimenting other great players in the NBA. His most recent comments on Dirk Nowitzki are just another example of LeBron's outgoing and humble personality, even though he is often criticized by the media and other players in the league. After losing to the Golden State Warriors in this year's NBA Finals, LeBron doesn't seem to be too depressed or worried. The Cleveland Cavaliers lost 4-1 in the NBA Finals to the Golden State Warriors, but LeBron James did his part as he showed up ready to play every game.
He became the first player in NBA history to average a triple-double in the Finals with averages of 33.6 points, 12.0 rebounds and 10.0 assists per game.
"Dirk is phenomenal"
Just three days after his season ended, LeBron appeared as a guest on a podcast called "Road Trippin". The podcast is hosted by his Cleveland Cavaliers teammates - Richard Jefferson and Channing Frye. Three of them appeared to be having a lots of fun as they were talking about various topics, and some of the topics weren't even related to basketball.
But when it came to basketball, LeBron had something to say. Dirk Nowitzki's name was mentioned, and LeBron showed respect to one of the best international players in NBA history.
"Dirk is phenomenal." LeBron said, and continued: "One of my favorites of all time, both on and off the floor." James added that he thinks Dirk is a cool guy, and amazing to be around. Later in the podcast LeBron was asked about when did he realize how great Nowitzki is, and LeBron answered by saying that one of the things that make Dirk great, is his patented one-leg fadeaway.
"One of the most unguardable shots this league has ever seen." LeBron said about Dirk's shot.
Dirk with a shoutout from The King. pic.twitter.com/oyBaoGIDX2
— ESPN (@espn) 16. lipnja 2017.
Game recognizes game
Obviously James and Nowitzki have history together as they met in the 2011 NBA Finals. At that time, LeBron was playing for the Miami Heat while Nowitzki was in his prime with the Dallas Mavericks.
Heavily favored to win the title that year, LeBron and his Miami Heat team lost to the Mavericks and Dirk Nowitzki was named the Finals MVP. Many believe this is the biggest knock against LeBron James in his Hall of Fame career, and he is aware of it. James mentioned the 2011 Finals while talking about Nowitzki on "Road Trippin" podcast by saying: "Just to see the player he became, much respect. Even though he took one of the rings from me."
