COLUMBUS, Ohio — LeBron James has never hidden his support of Ohio State football, but on Thursday, he reminded the NBA of where he stands in college football’s most heated rivalry.
In a loss against the Bulls, the Lakers forward wore Ohio State-inspired Nike shoes.
The shoes were covered in scarlet and gray, which isn’t the first time James has honored the Buckeyes through his shoes this season. However, the soles of these shoes featured a notable detail.
His last name was printed on the shoes. The ‘M’ was crossed off, though — a nod toward Ohio State’s rivalry week tradition.
James is a native of Akron, Ohio. His professional career started in 2003 when his hometown Cavaliers picked him with the first overall in the NBA Draft.
James played in Cleveland from 2003-10. He then played with the Heat (2010-14) before rejoining the Cavs (2014-18).
The future hall-of-famer has been with the Lakers since 2018.