LeBron James reiterates displeasure playing in Memphis, Milwaukee; adds Cleveland to list

James doubles down on gripes over Memphis, Milwaukee; adds Cleveland

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James reiterated his dislike for playing games in Memphis and Milwaukee, then included his hometown of Cleveland in the criticism. The 41-year-old star made the remarks during an appearance on the "Bob Does Sports" podcast and later at Lakers practice amid social media backlash. James specified his complaints target playing conditions and hotels, not the people or cities themselves.

On the podcast, James suggested the NBA would benefit if the Memphis Grizzlies relocated to Nashville, home to the NFL's Tennessee Titans and NHL's Nashville Predators, with aspirations for an MLB franchise. He also voiced frustration over scheduling, calling out a game on a "random f---ing Tuesday in Milwaukee." Responding to questions at practice, James said, "Milwaukee was, too. Did they miss that one, too? They didn’t see that? Forty-one years old. It’s two cities I do not like playing in right now. That’s Milwaukee, and that’s Memphis. What is the problem? I don’t like going home either. S---, and I’m from there. People are ridiculous. They also get mad at my son (Bronny) being on the team, too. So what are we talking about? People need to figure out other ways to put their energy to other things that’s important. Like seriously? I’m not talking about the city, like the people in Memphis. I don’t like staying at the Hyatt Centric. What’s wrong with that? Nothing. What are we talking about? What are we talking about? People need to chill the hell out."

Memphis Grizzlies head coach Tuomas Iisalo and Toronto Raptors head coach Darko Rajakovic, a former Grizzlies assistant, pushed back. Iisalo described Memphis as "very warm" and "very welcoming." Rajakovic said, "I don't care what the rest of the world thinks. I love the people of Memphis. I love the food. I love every single time I come over here."