Videos

Jeff Van Gundy Says Those Who Think LeBron James Wouldn’t Thrive in Past Eras ‘Need to Be Drug Tested’

Published by
Brendan Campbell

With the airing of ESPN’s documentary “The Last Dance,” much is being made about players’ abilities to compete in different eras.

For those who do not believe LeBron James would be great in any era, Jeff Van Gundy has a simple message: “You need to be drug tested.”

Van Gundy, who spent 11 seasons as a head coach in the NBA, specifically highlights James’ athleticism, skill and strength as reasons why the four-time MVP would dominate across basketball eras.

Van Gundy coached in the NBA in the ’90s and early ’00s, and he led the New York Knicks to a finals appearance in the lockout-shortened 1999 season.

Though the former coach noted the more physical nature of earlier basketball eras, he clearly believes that James would have no problem adjusting to more contact.

James’ all-around game would likely help in any era. The three-time NBA champion has career averages of 27.1 points, 7.4 rebounds and 7.4 assists per game.

Since being drafted in 2003 by the Cleveland Cavaliers, James has played 17 seasons in the NBA. The Akron native has dominated throughout his career, appearing in 16 All-Star games and being selected to 15 All-NBA teams.

Brendan Campbell

Brendan is a freelance writer based in New York City. He graduated from the University of Notre Dame and has always been an avid sports fan. His favorite Lakers player ever is Jerry West. Aside from everything hoops, some of Brendan’s hobbies include skiing, exercise, and reading. He also loves golden retrievers.

Published by
Brendan Campbell

Recent Posts

Ex-teammate of Kobe and Shaq reacts to ‘BS’ narrative about Bryant being O’Neal’s sidekick

Gilbert Arenas is a self-described fan of Kobe Bryant, but he turned some heads when…

December 22, 2024

Jordan and Shaq’s ex-teammate discredits LeBron’s ‘bubble’ ring after he’s called Lakers legend

The Los Angeles Lakers have sky-high expectations compared to the lion's share of other NBA…

December 21, 2024

‘LeBron makes the trades’: Carmelo Anthony speaks out on chances of Lakers dealing LeBron James

Amid chatter about the future of 20-time All-Star LeBron James with the Los Angeles Lakers,…

December 20, 2024

DeMarcus Cousins says he and Anthony Davis would’ve helped Pelicans become contenders if not for ‘dumba-s’ Dell Demps

Former All-Star big man DeMarcus Cousins called out former New Orleans Pelicans general manager Dell…

December 19, 2024

Darvin Ham fires massive shot at Lakers: ‘Anywhere else I’m probably looking at an extension’

Darvin Ham has had more NBA Cup success than any coach in the league since…

December 18, 2024

Bobby Portis on the difference between the Bucks and the Lakers: ‘We’re not Hollywood’

The Milwaukee Bucks captured the 2024 NBA Cup title with a 97-81 victory over the…

December 18, 2024