LeBron James recently shared a reel on Instagram showing his reverse dunk against the Memphis Grizzlies. With, just a few seconds left on the clock, James pulled off a move that left fans and fellow players in shock. A move, helping the Lakers seal their 123-120 victory and an improved seed in the Western Conference. James scored 37 points in the game to lead the Lakers to victory. As Jay-Z’s ‘I Did It My Way’ played in the background, numerous chimed in to respond, including James’ close friend and NFL star Odell Beckham Jr.
Aside from LeBron’s impressive dunk, the other eye-catching aspect of the video happens to be the forward wiggling away in celebrations, adorning a content smile. LeBron’s triumphant rhythm led him to Ja Morant who was sitting courtside. The Grizzlies point guard playfully shoved the Lakers’ king back onto the court, sparking the reaction from The L-Train. Reacting to the culminative aspects of the moment, Odell Beckham Jr. entered the comment section and left a trail of three laughing emojis. This playful exchange brings about the long-standing friendship between the two superstars.
The friendship between James and Beckham Jr. extends far beyond social media. Their friendship blossomed in the early 2010s, fueled by their mutual admiration and respect for each other’s talents. James was already an NBA Champion by then. He recognized Beckham Jr.’s exceptional athleticism and dazzling play-making skills. Beckham Jr. on the other hand, looked up to James as a role model and followed him since a young age to find him by his side in the one of the most significant juncture of his career.
A supportive voice in LeBron James
Odell Beckham Jr through many instances has showcased his admiration for the the 4-time champion. However, last year, he worded the sentiment. “LeBron is probably my biggest influence. He’s just someone I watched his moves growing up,” the LA Rams wide receiver admits according to on3. “He doesn’t even play football so it’s different when I’m watching him. But, the way that he carries himself, the way that he approaches the game, the way that he never cheats the workout regiments, just kind of all of those tips and advice.”
LeBron James himself has stood worthy of the praise, on the court to everyone’s common knowledge, and off the court to a warming one. “I told y’all he would! Had people thinking he ain’t HIM anymore,” James had written when Odell was waived by Cleveland and the wide receiver found a home in the LA Rams.
