Ring Don't Lie

I’m a “Smart Guy,” and I Have a Few Questions for LeBron James  

LeBron James of the Cleveland Cavaliers reacts against the Golden State Warriors during the second half in Game 2 of the 2017 NBA Finals on Sunday in Oakland, California.

Getty Images

After Game 2 on Sunday night, LeBron James got a little testy with a reporter. When asked if the Cleveland Cavaliers were now in a position where they had to defend home court, James answered the question with a couple of questions of his own. “Are you a smart guy?” James asked. “I think so,” the writer said. “If we don’t defend home court, what happens?” LeBron continued. It got more awkward from there.

It’s rare and entertaining to see a sports cliché get called out for being a sports cliché. Still, I’m sure this wasn’t the worst question LeBron’s ever been asked, and his answer wasn’t shockingly rude, either. Coming up with questions on the spot is difficult. Would I have thought of something better? Probably not! Nonetheless, I’ve compiled a few questions to ask LeBron after Game 3, and I grant permission to all members of the press to use them if they so desire.

  • At most, there are four more games left. How many of these would you describe as “must-win”?
  • Historically, the term cavalier refers to supporters of King Charles I during the English Civil War. Can you talk about Charles’ heavy-handedness with the Church of Scotland and how that affected your team’s performance tonight?
  • I noticed a few gentlemen on the court who were blowing whistles throughout the game. Who are they? Did you invite them?
  • How do I get back to my hotel?
  • This is a two-part question: 1. When you released the basketball tonight, it appeared to fall to the floor; can you elaborate on that? 2. Once the ball hit the floor, it bounced back up. Is this something you have come to expect?
  • Will Game 4 be played indoors as well?
  • Politics these days, right?
  • How long do ketchup packets last? There’s no expiration date on them, so … (Keep saying “so …” until LeBron answers the question.)