LeBron James Reportedly Did Not Author Article in State-Run Chinese Publication

Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James, who recently completed his 15th shoe tour in China, reportedly did not write or submit an essay attributed to him in the state-controlled People's Daily. Despite his name appearing as the author of a piece complimentary of China, sources close to James confirmed to The Athletic that he was not the author. Instead, comments made by James during group interviews in Shanghai and Chengdu were published, with the article referring to him as the "author" while also stating he was interviewed and the piece edited by a reporter. James' remarks, which focused on basketball as a bridge between countries, were consistent with a seasoned professional on a promotional tour. This marked his first trip to China since 2019, following a period of strained NBA-China relations.