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[Saba Sports News] LeBron James is undoubtedly one of the greatest basketball players ever, but even his biggest fans know he sometimes stretches the truth.
James joined Team USA in Las Vegas ahead of their training for the Paris Olympics. Speaking to reporters on Saturday, the 39-year-old was asked about the Lakers’ 2024 first-round pick, Dalton Knecht. James claimed that Knecht, besides his son Bronny, was his favorite college player last season.
“Throughout the college season, Dalton, aside from Bronny, was my favorite player in college basketball. I watched his game all season and loved his shooting, athleticism, height, and demeanor. I always felt his game would translate to the NBA,” said James. “I didn’t think he would fall to 17, so I didn’t think we’d have the opportunity to get him. I’m glad he did.”
Many fans doubted James’ claim, suggesting he was exaggerating his interest in Knecht before they became teammates. Even some Tennessee supporters appreciated the praise but felt James wasn’t as big a fan as he claimed.
It’s convenient that James’ favorite non-Bronny player in college just happened to fall to the Lakers in the draft. However, James’ influence could have impacted the decision to select Knecht. After all, he had enough pull to get his eldest son Bronny drafted at 55.
In his lone season at Tennessee, Knecht averaged 21.7 points and 4.9 rebounds per game, shooting 39.7% from three on 6.5 attempts per contest.