Michael Wilbon unleashed a passionate tirade aimed at LeBron James and Anthony Davis following the firing of Lakers head coach Darvin Ham, attributing his departure to what Wilbon perceives as unjust scapegoating by the star players.
On ESPN’s “Pardon the Interruption,” Wilbon expressed his frustration, emphasizing his personal connection with Ham and his respect for Ham’s coaching abilities. He reminded viewers of Ham’s role in leading the Lakers to the conference finals just a year prior, a significant accomplishment that garnered praise from both James and Davis.
Wilbon directed his criticism squarely at James and Davis, suggesting that if James desires to be considered the greatest player of all time, he should shoulder the responsibility that comes with that title. He urged James to take accountability for the team’s shortcomings, rather than deflecting blame onto others.
“Let me just say this: If you [LeBron] want to be the GOAT and you want to tell everybody you’re the greatest player of all time, then take accountability like one. Do that!” emphatically said Mike Wilbon on Pardon the Interruption.
Drawing comparisons to legendary players like Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan, Wilbon highlighted their willingness to accept responsibility for losses and acknowledged their own need to improve. He contrasted this with what he perceives as a lack of accountability from James in the face of adversity.
Wilbon stressed that true greatness entails assuming responsibility, and he challenged James and Davis to embody this principle. He dismissed any attempts to shift blame onto Ham, asserting that the star players must acknowledge their own role in the team’s performance.
As the Lakers search for a new head coach, Wilbon underscored the importance of finding a leader who can navigate the team through challenges and hold players accountable. Reported candidates for the position include former Bucks head coach Mike Budenholzer and J.J. Redick, an ESPN commentator and podcast cohost with James.