Jayson Tatum Reveals Funny Story About LeBron James’ Autograph Snub: ‘I Got in the Car and Started Crying’
Jayson Tatum reveals a funny story about LeBron James' autograph snub, detailing their memorable encounter and the surprising twist. Read more for the full story.
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No one matches LeBron James with his longevity in the NBA, playing at an elite level into his 21st. A plethora of current NBA players, who once admired him as children, now join or oppose him on the court, including his son, Bronny James.
Jayson Tatum recently lightened a Team USA practice by reciting a heartwarming and funny tale from his childhood involving NBA superstar LeBron James. And that left a profound mark on him emotionally and competitively. LeBron reacted amusingly and respectfully when the NBA shared a video where Tatum rehashed this story.
Jayson Tatum reveals funny story about LeBron James' autograph snub
Jayson Tatum shared a humorous story about LeBron James refusing to give him an autograph when he was a child. "It's unbelievable, but LeBron rejected my request for his autograph. This is a story I never shared with him," Tatum admitted.
"He didn't outright decline, but it was tantamount to that. It happened years back in Memphis. My father's best friend, Larry Hughes, used to play for the Cavs with LeBron. My mother took me to one of their matches in Memphis."
"I aspired to meet LeBron, get a picture with him, and secure his autograph amidst the throng of fans. But he abruptly left, saying he had to leave. Heartbroken, I retreated to our car and cried. However, we're on good terms now," Tatum recounted.
LeBron James conceded, "Yes, he asked for my autograph, but I denied him. When did this happen again?"
Tatum revealed, "I was approximately 11 at the time."
LeBron then jested, "That's probably why you dunked on me during the Conference Finals."
Tatum retorted, "That was my revenge."
LeBron lightened the mood, "I remember, that's when you had that hairstyle. The last time you sported that look was when you outplayed me."
Tatum's childhood disillusionment never dented his admiration for LeBron, but it did stoke his competitive fire. Years later, Tatum settled the score during the 2018 Eastern Conference Finals when he spectacularly dunked on LeBron. This unforgettable moment symbolized Tatum's transformation from a mere fan to an NBA star, competing against the player he had formerly idolized.
LeBron James and Jayson Tatum's journey from disappointment to brotherhood
Jayson Tatum and LeBron James have successfully navigated from disillusionment to camaraderie. Remarkably, the slight disappointment Tatum experienced as a kid didn't damage their relationship; instead, it bolstered it. Currently, they are respected teammates in the U.S. National team.
Tatum even humorously reminisces about his vengeful dunk over James in a 2018 playoff game. This experience and their private chuckles manifest the depth of their relationship, a bond that has transformed an initial letdown into a robust connection that transcends the basketball court.
The discourse underscored Tatum's progression and the brotherhood and mutual regard that exists between the two. His story, though amusing, emphasizes the influence of childhood heroes and the power of these experiences to serve as motivation.
ALSO READ: Bronny James Criticized for Airballs at Summer League Against Celtics: ‘This Is on LeBron’
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