There have been many NBA rivalries over the years, with some that have lasted for decades.
One of the recent rivalries is the one between LeBron James and Paul Pierce.
When Pierce was still in the league, many people noted his apparent dislike for James.
Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson got some insight about this from James’ former teammate Mario Chalmers.
Chalmers claims that Pierce’s dislike of James came from a feeling of disrespect.
“I just feel like Paul Pierce never got the respect that he deserved when it comes to him being that type of caliber player he is,” Chalmers said.
He added that Pierce was upset when James and other NBA stars were considered the best of the best while he wasn’t.
“I should be up there too, I did just as much as these guys did; I got the ring, I got the numbers…why is my name not up there?” Chalmers said about Pierce’s thinking.
He concluded: “I think that it’s a little personal matchup between him and ‘Bron. I don’t think it’s really any dislike, I just think that’s how he feels.”
Paul Pierce doesn’t like LeBron James, right?!
Why?
I asked Mario Chalmers:
“I think it’s something personal. But for me, I just feel like Paul Pierce never got the respect that he deserved when it comes to him being that type of caliber player he is – because when you think… pic.twitter.com/435uD9rO5o
— 👑 Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson (@ScoopB) October 9, 2023
Pierce definitely has plenty to be proud of.
During his 19 years in the NBA, he was a 10-time All-Star, four-time All-NBA selection, NBA champion, and Finals MVP too.
He is now a Hall of Famer and a member of the NBA 75th Anniversary Team too.
Still, it is true that James received more spotlight than Pierce during their shared time in the league.
Of course, James was the biggest basketball star in the world at the time and was gaining more attention than any other player had in decades.
A lot of people felt like they were living in his shadow.
Pierce’s place in Boston Celtics history stands the test of time.
He is remembered as one of the most important players of his team during a pivotal chapter.
Perhaps his years or retirement have softened Pierce’s view of James.
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