In a moment that reminded everyone why LeBron James remains one of the most culturally tapped-in athletes of all time, King James went full Slim Shady before tip-off—spitting aggressive bars from Eminem’s iconic track “The Way I Am.”
Caught on camera in pregame warmups, LeBron was seen mouthing these intense lyrics:
“Leave me alone when you freaks see me out in the streets when I’m eatin’ with my daughter, do not come speak to me.
I don’t know you and no, I don’t owe you a mother****in’ thing.
I’m not your friend, I’m not Mr. Friendly. I can be a prick if you tempt me.
My tank is on empty, no patience is in me.
And if you offend me, I’m liftin’ you ten feet in the air… I don’t care who’s there…”
The clip instantly went viral, with fans praising LeBron for the deep-cut lyrical choice. Eminem’s “The Way I Am” is a raw anthem about fame, pressure, and personal space—making it a fitting pregame pump-up for someone under the spotlight like LeBron.
Many fans felt the song choice was telling. Whether intentional or not, it seemed to echo LeBron’s own ongoing tension with media, critics, and public expectations. Others simply appreciated the nod to Eminem’s intense artistry and lyrical complexity.
Social media reactions were lit:
“LeBron quoting The Way I Am before a game?? Certified savage mode.”
“That’s not just music—that’s how a GOAT locks in mentally.”
“He picked the most anti-fame Eminem track to recite. He’s telling y’all to back off.”
