Craig Carton and Michael Rapaport’s Stance on LeBron James

Craig Carton and Michael Rapaport share a common dislike for NBA star LeBron James, despite their shared enthusiasm for the New York Knicks. Rapaport joined Carton on the premiere of OutKick’s ‘The Craig Carton Show’ and expressed his feelings toward the Philadelphia 76ers player, calling him someone he loves to hate.

Carton’s Reason for Dislike

Carton respects James’ skills on the court, but his main issue with James stems from an off-the-court incident in 2017. During the premiere of his show, Carton explained, “I’ll tell you the number one reason I’m not a LeBron guy. It’s a clear-cut number one for me.”

“Years ago, when he was in Cleveland, our country was going through racial issues. In my opinion, he invented a story that people spray-painted racial epithets on the gate leading up his driveway,” Carton stated.

The Associated Press reported that unidentified vandals spray-painted a racial slur on the gate of James’ $20 million Brentwood home. The incident was reported early in the morning and later covered up by property management. No arrests were made.

Carton accused James of using the event to include himself in societal debates on race. “For such a prominent African-American to try to get in on the conversation by inventing something that never took place—dead to me,” Carton remarked.

Rapaport’s Personal Experience

Michael Rapaport, on the other hand, had a personal experience influencing his view. He initially had a good rapport with James since meeting him during his rookie year with the Cavaliers. Their relationship soured when James refused a photo with Rapaport’s young children.

“I brought my little kids. They were like five and seven, right? And he like Heismaned them,” Rapaport shared.

This incident led Rapaport to distance himself from James, despite never speaking ill of the player until then. “I never said anything bad about him,” he reiterated.

Upcoming Season

With James now on the 76ers, Carton and Rapaport will have frequent chances to see him play, especially when the season opens with a game against the defending champions at Madison Square Garden.

‘The Craig Carton Show’ launched on September 8 and promises to feature prominent guests discussing sports and world events. The show reflects Carton’s unique perspective and unfiltered commentary.