James attended NBA Finals many times almost every year, but as a player. This time, he was sitting courtside to support Chris Paul, his close friend and Suns star. This is the second Finals series James has not played on the court.
But with his friend Chris Paul leading the Phoenix Suns, he decided to take in the courtside action for Game 5 in a different way. He explained on camera that hes returning the favor when Paul attended James first trip to the Finals in 2007. LeBron said he and Paul support each other since they first came into the league.
In the end, however, LeBron’s appearance did not help the Suns to win Game 5. The Bucks took the victory 123-119. They now have a 3-2 lead with a chance of taking the title in Game 6 on Tuesday. The Suns will need the next win for a chance to take their first NBA title in Game 7.
LeBron James himself has played in the Finals 10 times, where he won four championships. Ironically, his chance of taking his fifth win was dashed by the Suns themselves. The Phoenix defeated Los Angeles in six games after Anthony Davis exit the first-round series after getting hurt in Game 4.
Currently, James is promoting his new film, Space Jam: A New Legacy. It was said the reason James did not play for Team USA at the Olympics was the movie. But because of it, he was also able to attend Paul’s Finals games. There’s a good chance hell be back as a player next season.