Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James has not publicly addressed a growing controversy after an essay bearing his byline was published Monday in the People’s Daily, the official newspaper of the Chinese Communist Party, and drew criticism for praising China and its fans.
The Athletic reported Tuesday, citing unnamed sources, that James “didn’t write the article that carried his name.” The outlet said James gave group interviews in two Chinese cities during a Nike promotional visit called the "Forever King Tour," and that the words in the People’s Daily reflected those interviews but were not submitted by James as a standalone essay or opinion piece.
Three translators told The Athletic that the People’s Daily described James as the "author" while also noting that a reporter from the state paper interviewed him and edited the piece. Reuters and the South China Morning Post published excerpts of the text, in which the writer thanked Chinese fans and said the "enthusiasm and kindness of Chinese friends deeply touch me." The article added: "Every time I come here, my family and I are warmly welcomed. I am deeply moved by the hospitality and friendliness of our Chinese friends. All I can do is give my all in every match and express my gratitude to everyone."
Fox News Digital said it sought comment from a James representative about whether the publication of the byline was a mix-up or whether the essay ran without his knowledge; it reported no response. The Athletic said sources close to James relayed that he did not write the piece.
The episode revives tensions that have shadowed NBA-China relations since 2019, when then-Houston Rockets general manager Daryl Morey’s social media post in support of Hong Kong protesters prompted a diplomatic and commercial backlash from China. The league, teams and players have frequently faced scrutiny over engagement with China, which is a major market for the NBA and for equipment and apparel manufacturing.
Critics reacted sharply to the People’s Daily item. Former NFL sideline reporter Michele Tafoya told OutKick’s "Don’t @ Me with Dan Dakich" that the article raised questions about James’s positions on human rights in China, including the treatment of Uyghur Muslims. "The first (thought) was, ‘OK, is this real? Is this A.I.? Is this legit? Is he this ill-informed?’… This is like American malpractice," she said. Tafoya referenced a 2024 U.S. Department of Labor report that said Uyghur Muslims were subjected to "ideological indoctrination" and forced Mandarin instruction; China has rejected allegations of human rights abuses in the region.
Fox Sports broadcaster Tim Brando described the publication as a "sellout" on OutKick’s "Hot Mic," saying the episode reinforced his decision to step away from broadcasting NBA games. Commentators noted that James, who previously criticized Morey in 2019, has business and apparel ties to China through Nike and other ventures.
The People’s Daily item, whether an authored essay or edited account of interviews, is unusual because it would mark the first time an active NBA player was credited with a byline in the Chinese Communist Party’s official newspaper. The Athletic’s account leaves open questions about how the byline was attached and what approval, if any, James or his representatives gave to the final text.
James visited China as part of a promotional tour with Nike that included public appearances and media interviews. The Athletic said the content of the People’s Daily piece was consistent with comments James made during those group interviews, though it reported that he did not submit the item as an op-ed.
The dispute underscores a broader dilemma for American athletes and leagues that operate in global markets: balancing commercial interests and access with public expectations about political and human rights issues. Since the Morey episode, the NBA has tried to repair relations with Chinese partners while navigating criticism at home for perceived deference to foreign governments.
At the time of publication, James had not issued a public statement clarifying whether he authored the People’s Daily item or consented to its byline. Media outlets and commentators continued to report varying accounts, relying on translations and anonymous sources to explain the piece’s origin. The People’s Daily has not issued a public clarification beyond publishing the article with James’s name.
The matter may prompt scrutiny of how international media outlets represent high-profile figures and how athletes and their teams manage media interactions abroad. It also is likely to re-ignite debate in the United States about commercial ties with China and the responsibilities of public figures when discussing foreign governments and sensitive human rights issues.