Fans were eager to remind the King that this *not* an NBA title

Photo: Ethan Miller (Getty Images)

There’s a saying in the social media world about the internet being undefeated. So, while Father Time chases after LeBron James, the internet takes pride in tackling the King to the ground every chance it gets. This time, they’ve captured him after James and the Lakers secured a victory Saturday night, becoming the inaugural NBA Cup champions and winning the first In-Season tournament. Of course, it’s only fitting that LBJ was also named the first-ever tournament MVP in doing so. And that’s all social media needed to begin the roasting session on Bron.

All the memes came out last night following the Lakers’ victory, with many clowning James for carrying on as if he’d just won ring No. 5 (although, for some of James’ most ardent fans, this is like him winning a fifth NBA Finals and MVP). James is already a dramatic character, so you should’ve seen this coming. Kudos to those folks who called it (people like me). LeBron desperately wanted to win this tournament. In the minds of James and his minions, this only furthers the notion that he’s the greatest of all time.

It’s certainly an accomplishment, but it’s nowhere near in line with winning the real NBA Championship. Now, if James leads the Lakers to win the franchise’s 18th title this year and his fifth, then we’ve got something to discuss. But hey, we’re not here to rain on the parade being scheduled in LA. Hmmm.…is there a championship parade planned for this prestigious championship? If not, LeBron’s people should schedule it because he’ll never pass up an opportunity to gloat.

Congratulations to the King and his Laker teammates. Let them enjoy this victory because they earned it by swimming through the choppy waters of this convoluted tournament. And here we all thought 2020 was the last time we’d see James celebrating a championship victory. Eventually, the NBA will probably begin giving out rings for this championship as well because we live in an era where everyone has to be celebrated as winners. Let’s see how long it takes before this title holds as much weight as the NBA Finals. If LeBron wins this tournament enough, it’ll only be a matter of time.