James did open up on his injury status after the All-Star break

FANS were more than disgruntled after LeBron James’ announced he wouldn’t be playing in the 2025 NBA All-Star Game.

The Los Angeles Lakers superstar, 40, has been urged to retire from the sport as fans claim he robbed an NBA star of a spot during the All-Star weekend festivities in San Francisco.

LeBron James at an NBA All-Star 2025 press conference.
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Los Angeles Lakers star Lebron James announced to reporters during a press conference that he wouldn’t participate in the 2025 NBA All-Star Game due to injuriesCredit: Getty

LeBron James at an NBA All-Star 2025 press conference.
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NBA fans fumed at the 40-year-old LeBron’s decision and aired out their grievances on social mediaCredit: Getty
LeBron James, who was drafted by Shaq’s OGs, addressed the media two hours before tip-off of the first semi-final of the new All-Star Game mini-tournament.

The four-time NBA champion revealed to reporters that he wouldn’t play due to an issue with his left foot and ankle.

“You won’t see anything from me tonight,” LeBron said while hosting a press conference.

“Unfortunately, I will not be in uniform tonight. Still dealing with ankle and foot discomfort.”

On his injury, James said, “I was hoping it would feel a lot better this morning, but it was not where I wanted it to be.

“With 30 games left and us trying to make a playoff push in the wild, wild West, I felt like it was very important for me to kind of take care of myself and understand what’s coming on.”

LeBron’s decision just hours before the All-Star game didn’t sit right with NBA fans, who think his move cost a player who could’ve earned an appearance in the contest.

“If he cannot play, he should not be there. He’s taking up space. Give the opportunity to somebody who cares,” one wrote.

“Bro has NO care in the world that he robbed another player a once in a lifetime opportunity,” another commented.

“No regret, no shame, and just shrugs his shoulders. The most out of tune person I have ever seen. Please retire and stop ruining this wonderful game,” the same social media user added.
Victor Wembanyama leaves Nikola Jokic with head in hands in NBA All-Star locker room for ‘LeBron James moment’
“Taking a spot away from someone else smh,” a third stated.

It was James’ first All-Star Game he had sat out in his 21-year career.

His move came after he also missed Saturday’s ceremonial practice and media day.

LeBron’s squad Shaq’s OGs, created by Shaquille O’Neal, won the revamped event by beating Chuck’s Global Stars, picked by Charles Barkley, in the mini-tournament final.

Shaquille O'Neal speaking into a microphone.
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Shaquille O’Neal’s squad won the revamped All-Star game event and beat Charles Barkley’s team in the mini-tournament finalCredit: Getty
Before the game, James shared that he hopes to play when the league returns.

“I hope to be available on Wednesday,” he said.

“We have to have a makeup game. So, I am headed back to LA tonight.

“There will be no vacation for me, so I head back to LA tonight and back to rehab tomorrow and getting ready for practice on Tuesday, and hopefully I can play against Charlotte on Wednesday and hopefully play against Portland on Thursday.

“It’s a big stretch for us.”