LOS ANGELES -- LeBron James directed a cease-and-desist order of sorts Tuesday to LaVar Ball, the outspoken father of three boys -- including star UCLA freshman Lonzo Ball -- who said earlier this month that his children are set up better for future success than those of the Cleveland Cavaliers' star.
"Keep my kids' name out of your mouth, keep my family out of your mouth," James told ESPN on Tuesday, as the Cavaliers practiced on UCLA's campus, two days after a victory at the Lakers.
"This is dad to dad. It's a problem now."
The first bit of interesting news here is that LaVar Ball got LeBron James to acknowledge him publicly, regardless of how people might view the comments in question. For someone attempting to grow a brand, this must be great news for him to hear LeBron James mention him and his family no matter how much ill-intent was apparent. This is a win for LaVar, make no mistake about it. Facts often fail to get in the way of public perception, as people recognize someone and then associate without really taking the time to read.
It's also important to note that LaVar was completely over-the-line here with his comments. You shouldn't put the names of children out there like that to be bashed. That is indefensible.
Jeffrey Gorman and Brady Poppinga weigh in on this issue in the audio below. You can hear Steve Gorman Sports every weekday from 6-8 pm est. on Fox Sports Radio.