LeBron James’ emotions took over.
That’s why the NBA’s biggest star seemed caught off-guard when TNT’s Allie LaForce asked him about Erin Popovich’s death on Wednesday night following the Cavs’ 100-97 playoff win over the Pacers.
His reaction was so full of shock and emotion that many on social media came after LaForce for asking James about the passing of Gregg Popovich’s wife in the first place, claiming LaForce ambushed James.
However, after video of James answering LaForce’s question went viral, he clarified that the reporter did inform him of Erin Popovich’s death before the camera started rolling.
Erin Popovich, wife of Spurs coach Gregg Popovich, dead at 67
LeBron James’ emotions took over.
(David Richard/USA TODAY Sports)“A lot of people think I was blindsided. That is absolutely false,” James said in a video published by The Undefeated. “Allie LaForce told me she was going to ask me the question and if it was OK. Once I started talking about it on-air, actually my emotions kind of took over and that was just my emotions coming straight from the heart.”
James has a strong relationship with Gregg Popovich as he as played on Team USA for years.
James had to pause mid-interview at points when LaForce asked him about the Popovich family.
“Obviously I’m a huge Pop fan. I love Pop,” James said in his initial emotional response to LaForce on TNT. “That’s such a tragedy and my best wishes go out to Pop and his family. I know that’s devastating news and holy … It’s just a lot. The NBA family, we all sit together and compete every night. But something like this happens, it puts everything in perspective. So I send my well wishes and my prayers up to the heaven above.”
Erin Popovich died at the age of 67 after battling an illness over a long period of time.