At the age of 40, LeBron James is still performing at an elite level, averaging nearly the same points as when he first started his NBA career. As the Los Angeles Lakers star is now set to prove his athleticism on an even bigger stage with Team USA in the Paris 2024 Olympics, his already stellar resume has added another significant accomplishment for him.
The Athletic’s Joe Vardon and Sam Amick recently polled the Team USA training camp participants to gauge their opinions on the best player among the 12 NBA stars representing the national team. LeBron James emerged as the top choice, receiving five votes for his work ethic and athleticism.
LeBron James was voted the best player on the court by his peers during Team USA training camp, per @joevardon & @sam_amick
“James, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer who is months away from the start of his 22nd season, was voted the top national team player in camp in a straw… pic.twitter.com/BR7G0idZPC
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) July 9, 2024
“James, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer who is months away from the start of his 22nd season, was voted the top national team player in camp in a straw poll of Olympic camp participants conducted by The Athletic,” the report read.
The poll results prove the enduring impact of James’ dedication and talent. Even as he approaches the twilight of his career, his peers continue to recognize his excellence.
Meanwhile, Anthony Edwards, Stephen Curry, and Jrue Holiday each received two votes, while Kawhi Leonard, Joel Embiid, Anthony Davis, and Bam Adebayo each garnered one vote.
NBA Fans Weigh on LeBron James’ Having the Honor
Upon learning the results of the poll, NBA fans couldn’t help but share their appreciation for LeBron James. The debate about the GOAT title in the NBA often centers around Michael Jordan and James. The poll’s outcome prompted some fans to advocate for LeBron to be crowned as the GOAT.
This is why lebron james is the greatest
— 23 💫👑 (@Br0nToLA23) July 9, 2024
For many fans, the poll result was no surprise, given James’ exceptional athleticism. Over the years, his performance cemented his status as one of the game’s greats to receive the honor.
However, all great athletes face criticism, and James is no exception. Some fans remain unconvinced by the poll results, questioning whether LeBron deserves the honor over his contemporaries and predecessors.
Lol, he’s not even a top 15 player in the league today let’s be real. Without AD Lakers are a last place team every year. He’s 40 though its okay to admit it.
— Jeremy Kamali (@jeremykamali) July 9, 2024
He’s not even the best player on his own NBA team pic.twitter.com/6TGkhceILR
— E-Man (@WigginsWick22) July 9, 2024