A 29-year-old Lakers supporter filed a small claims lawsuit in Los Angeles County, accusing LeBron James of misleading him with his adLeBron James (Image Credits: Imagn)
LeBron James once again showed that he knows exactly how to stir up excitement among his fans. Recently, he sent the basketball world into a frenzy after hinting at a mysterious “second decision.”

Ticket prices for the Lakers’ final home game of the season against the Utah Jazz skyrocketed. Many fans believed this would be LeBron’s last NBA game. Fans assumed he was preparing to follow in Kobe Bryant’s footsteps.

However, the hype took a hilarious twist when it was revealed that it was an advertisement for Hennessy. LeBron had teamed up with the company to launch a limited-edition bottle.

While most fans laughed off the playful marketing stunt, one fan took it personally. According to TMZ Sports, a 29-year-old Lakers supporter named Andrew Garcia filed a small claims lawsuit in Los Angeles County, accusing James of misleading him.

“Andrew Garcia, a 29-year-old, lifelong Lakers fan, filed the lawsuit in a small claims court in Los Angeles County on Wednesday … claiming James owes him $865.66 after he says the hooper seemingly intimated he was about to announce his retirement,” the TMZ report read.

While some fans were furious, others immediately recognized LeBron’s marketing genius. They pointed out that James had a history of toying with fans’ emotions online and saw the “second decision” as another smart publicity move. Even Lakers head coach JJ Redick called out those who truly believed LeBron was retiring.

Stephen A. Smith Calls Out LeBron James’ Stunt

LeBron JamesLeBron James (Image Credits: Imagn)
Renowned ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith didn’t hold back while reacting to LeBron’s Hennessy stunt. Smith took a jab at James’s timing and the perception it created.

“If you play like garbage at any point in time when it really really counts, I’m going to think about that Hennessy commercial and wonder if you were drinking something before the game,” Smith said.

Despite the wave of jokes and criticisms, James remains unfazed. The 40-year-old star is instead focused on preparing for his 23rd NBA season. Unfortunately, reports reveal that he will miss the entire preseason due to nerve irritation in his glute. However, the Lakers team expects LeBron to make his return in time for the regular-season opener against the Golden State Warriors.