LeBron James is the NBA’s most underappreciated player, according to Victor Wembanyama.

In a world where superstar players often dominate the conversation, it is rare for someone of LeBron James’ stature to be underappreciated. Yet, this is precisely the sentiment that young phenom Victor Wembanyama, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, expressed recently regarding LeBron’s place in NBA history. Wembanyama, who has already shown signs of being a once-in-a-generation talent with the San Antonio Spurs, spoke about how LeBron is often not given his due credit for the incredible feats he has achieved over the course of his storied career.

To hear a rookie who is being touted as the future of the NBA praise LeBron James in such a manner speaks volumes about LeBron’s place in the sport’s history. It also shines a light on the paradox that has plagued James’ career: despite being universally regarded as one of the greatest basketball players to ever play the game, he remains underappreciated by large sections of the basketball world, particularly when compared to his peers and predecessors.

In this article, we’ll examine Wembanyama’s statement, delve into the reasons why LeBron James may be considered underappreciated despite his legendary accomplishments, and explore how this narrative has unfolded throughout his career. We’ll also analyze how the perspectives surrounding LeBron’s legacy may evolve as the NBA’s next generation — led by figures like Wembanyama — continues to shape the league.

Wembanyama’s Observations on LeBron James

When Victor Wembanyama spoke out about LeBron James being the NBA’s most underappreciated player, it was not a passing comment. As one of the most highly anticipated draft prospects in recent memory, Wembanyama’s words carried weight, and his admiration for LeBron James seemed sincere and thoughtful.

In an interview, Wembanyama expressed that while the world lauds LeBron for his incredible achievements, including his four NBA championships, two Olympic gold medals, and numerous accolades, many still fail to grasp the magnitude of his greatness. He noted that LeBron has been in the NBA for over 20 years — an almost unheard-of feat in the modern era of basketball — and has maintained a level of performance and consistency that defies conventional wisdom.

What is particularly striking is the fact that Wembanyama is a rising star himself, a young player who is expected to one day dominate the league in a similar manner to LeBron. Yet, he is already keenly aware of the historical context that surrounds James. To Wembanyama, LeBron’s longevity, sustained excellence, and ability to adapt his game over the years make him an invaluable asset to the sport — even if others do not always appreciate the breadth of his influence.

The Legacy of LeBron James: A Dual Narrative

While Wembanyama’s perspective as a future superstar is noteworthy, the notion that LeBron James is underappreciated is not a new one. Over the years, LeBron has been subject to a dual narrative in the NBA. On one hand, he is heralded as one of the greatest to ever play the game, often being compared to the likes of Michael Jordan, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Kobe Bryant. On the other hand, there remains a segment of the basketball community that seems to overlook or undervalue his contributions, particularly in comparison to other iconic figures of his time.

There are several reasons why LeBron James is sometimes underappreciated despite his obvious greatness. To understand this phenomenon, it’s important to examine both the subjective and objective aspects of his career.

1. The High Expectations: “The Chosen One”

LeBron James entered the NBA with extraordinary expectations. He was touted as the “Chosen One” long before he was drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2003, a moniker that placed an immense amount of pressure on him from day one. For years, LeBron was expected not only to be a superstar but to be the superstar — the player who would eventually surpass all others in terms of legacy and success.

The problem with this lofty expectation is that it set LeBron up for constant scrutiny. Every decision he made, every game he played, and every championship pursuit was amplified because the world expected him to be perfect. Even when he delivered at the highest level, as he has done so many times, there were always those who found ways to criticize him. His famous decision to leave Cleveland and take his talents to South Beach was met with public backlash, and this decision would shape much of the discourse around his career.

Because of these high expectations, it was difficult for LeBron to ever truly be seen as “underrated” or “underappreciated” by those who were critical of his every move. Even his championships — the ones he achieved in Miami and then again in Cleveland — were often viewed with skepticism. The general narrative that “LeBron couldn’t win without help” overshadowed some of the extraordinary things he did in those moments.

2. The Michael Jordan Comparison

One of the most significant factors contributing to LeBron’s underappreciation is the constant comparison to Michael Jordan. For many, Jordan represents the pinnacle of NBA greatness. He is often the standard against which all other players are measured. LeBron has been forced to endure this comparison for nearly two decades, and while he has arguably surpassed Jordan in some areas, the general public remains resistant to the idea of dethroning MJ as the GOAT.

Even though LeBron has more career points, assists, and rebounds than Jordan, and has played in more NBA Finals (10 appearances vs. Jordan’s 6), there remains a vocal section of fans and analysts who cling to the idea that Jordan’s 6-0 Finals record and his influence on the game’s global appeal are unmatched. These comparisons, often framed as binary, have made it difficult for LeBron’s career to be appreciated fully on its own merit. As a result, even when LeBron does something historic or game-changing, it is sometimes overlooked or seen as insufficient when placed next to Jordan’s legacy.

3. Off-Court Influence and Activism

Another layer to LeBron’s underappreciation is the off-court persona he has developed. While many appreciate LeBron’s charitable work, his advocacy for social justice, and his platform as a businessman and philanthropist, there are others who criticize his political stances and his outspoken nature. In the age of social media and 24/7 news cycles, some view LeBron’s activism as a distraction from his on-court performance.

This scrutiny of his personal life, which is often more politically charged than that of some of his peers, has led to a narrative where LeBron is sometimes seen as “too much” in the public eye — making him more polarizing and, in some instances, less appreciated. Unlike other players who have largely kept their off-court lives out of the spotlight, LeBron has openly embraced his status as a public figure, which has caused some backlash.

The Unprecedented Longevity and Adaptability of LeBron James

Despite all of the criticisms and comparisons, LeBron James’ longevity is perhaps the most significant argument in favor of his legacy. To maintain elite performance in the NBA for over two decades is almost unheard of, yet LeBron has done it with remarkable consistency.

As Wembanyama noted, the sheer duration of LeBron’s career — combined with his ability to evolve his game to stay relevant in an ever-changing NBA landscape — cannot be overstated. He’s remained at the top of the game, whether as a high-flying dunker, an elite playmaker, or a clutch scorer in crucial moments. His work ethic and ability to transform his body and mindset over the years have allowed him to continue competing with the league’s best, even as he approaches the age of 40.

This adaptability is a testament to LeBron’s basketball IQ and understanding of the game. He has transcended the traditional definition of an athlete, blending skill, strength, and intelligence in ways that were previously unimaginable for players of his age. Yet, while many fans recognize this, there are others who focus on his perceived “decline” as he gets older, often dismissing his incredible achievements.

LeBron’s Legacy: A More Appreciated Future

While LeBron James may be seen as underappreciated by certain segments of the fanbase, there is a growing recognition that his legacy will only become more appreciated with time. Future generations, including players like Wembanyama, will likely look back at his career with admiration and respect, seeing him for the all-time great that he is.

As LeBron’s career nears its end, his impact on the game, both on and off the court, will continue to resonate for decades to come. In the meantime, young stars like Victor Wembanyama — who understand the value of appreciating greatness in real-time — may be the ones who continue to lead the way in recognizing LeBron James for what he truly is: a basketball legend whose influence transcends the confines of the court.