LeBron James reiterates displeasure playing in Memphis, Milwaukee; adds Cleveland to list

James expands criticism to Cleveland after Memphis, Milwaukee complaints

LeBron James reiterated his dislike for playing in Memphis and Milwaukee, adding Cleveland to the list during a podcast appearance and subsequent practice session. The Los Angeles Lakers forward, now 41, appeared on "Bob Does Sports" and suggested the NBA would benefit if the Memphis Grizzlies relocated to Nashville, home to the NFL's Tennessee Titans and NHL's Nashville Predators. He also referenced frustration with a game on a "random f---ing Tuesday in Milwaukee."

James faced social media backlash for the initial Memphis remarks. At Lakers practice, he defended his stance, saying Milwaukee and Memphis are the two cities he dislikes playing in currently, and added that he does not like returning home to Cleveland either. He clarified his complaints targeted hotel stays, such as the Hyatt Centric in Memphis, rather than the people or cities themselves.

Memphis Grizzlies coach Tuomas Iisalo and Toronto Raptors coach Darko Rajakovic, a former Grizzlies assistant, pushed back. Iisalo described Memphis as warm and welcoming, holding the opposite view of James. Rajakovic expressed love for Memphis's people and food.