LeBron James said too much. And said it too soon. Just hours before Cooper Flagg’s big NBA Draft night, The King drew heat online. After comparing the young phenom’s Dallas Mavericks situation to his own rookie season. But not everyone was impressed. Ron Harper, Michael Jordan’s former Bulls teammate, was quick to slam James. For once again making it all about himself.
The backlash exploded when Harper, now a vocal basketball elder, fired off a sharp jab on social media. He responded to James’ detailed comparison between Flagg’s draft scenario and his own 2003 debut in Cleveland. Harper wrote, “It always comes back to him… lol.” That comment turned heads instantly. And it came loaded with sting. According to Harper, James didn’t just share advice. He hijacked the moment meant for Flagg.
LeBron James Hijacks Draft Spotlight, Says MJ’s Ex-Teammate
James had made the comments during a podcast appearance. He reflected on what it meant to be a No. 1 pick. James noted that Flagg was heading into a much better situation than he did. Flanked by stars like Kyrie Irving, Anthony Davis, and Klay Thompson, and coached by Jason Kidd. James contrasted that with his own Cleveland squad. Where he started alongside names like Zydrunas Ilgauskas and Ricky Davis. But Harper didn’t buy the comparison. He hinted that it wasn’t the right time. Or the right player to bring himself into the spotlight.
It always comeback to him… lol
— Ron Harper (@HARPER04_5) June 25, 2025
The situation gets even more personal. When you consider who Cooper Flagg edged out for that top pick. Ron Harper’s own son, Dylan. He was Drafted No. 2 to the San Antonio Spurs. Dylan Harper will still enter the league with high expectations. But his father wasn’t about to sit quietly as LeBron centered himself in the middle of Flagg’s moment, especially when the Flagg-Harper family narrative was already buzzing on its own.
And to top it off, Flagg threw another jab in LeBron’s direction. In a recent interview, the young star made it clear who his GOAT is. “Michael Jordan, for sure,” he told talkSport. He credited his parents and his admiration for Larry Bird as key influences. Not only did Flagg sidestep the LeBron-vs-Jordan debate. He dismissed it entirely. That, combined with Harper’s tweet, turned James’ brief comment into a viral controversy. And just like that, Cooper Flagg’s night had a new headline. Starring LeBron James.
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