Craig Carton and Michael Rapaport’s Dislike for LeBron James
Shared Dislike for LeBron James
Craig Carton and Michael Rapaport have found common ground beyond their enthusiasm for the New York Knicks. Both harbor strong objections to LeBron James. Rapaport appeared on the premiere of OutKick’s “The Craig Carton Show” on Tuesday, expressing his disdain for the Philadelphia 76ers player. Carton acknowledged James’ talent but confessed that his primary reason for dislike stems from a 2017 incident off the court.
“There’s a clear-cut number one reason for me not being a LeBron guy,” Carton stated during the show’s premiere. He recalled a situation when James was in Cleveland, which coincided with racial tensions in the United States.
“In my opinion, he invented a story that people spray-painted racial epithets on the gate leading up his driveway,”
Carton recounted.
Controversy Over Alleged Vandalism
The Associated Press cited police reports from the incident, confirming that the N-word had been spray-painted on the gate of James’ $20 million home. Despite this, no arrests were ever made.
Carton suggested James fabricated the event to participate in the national conversation about race.
“For a prominent African-American to try and enter the discussion by creating an incident that never happened – that’s unforgivable,”
Carton asserted. He criticized the lack of follow-up on the matter, emphasizing its oversight in public discourse.
Rapaport’s Personal Reasons
Michael Rapaport’s reasons for disliking James are different, yet no less personal. Rapaport described their initial meeting during James’ rookie year as amicable. However, an incident involving Rapaport’s children altered his perception.
During an encounter, James refused to pose for a picture with Rapaport’s young children.
“I don’t know what bug he had up there about me. I had never said anything bad about him,”
Rapaport recounted. This led to a permanent change in his feelings toward James.
Rapaport speculated about rumors concerning a friend, but insisted, “That has nothing to do with my kids.” The event left Rapaport feeling disconnected from James.
Knicks Fans Across the Lines
With James now a part of the 76ers, Carton and Rapaport anticipate frequent encounters this season. The 76ers will face the defending champions at Madison Square Garden in their opening game.
Carton’s show, debuting on Sept. 8, promises A-list guests and discussions on sports and global issues.