LeBron James phoned his Heat teammate and NBPA secretary-treasurer James Jones on Monday, to let him know there wouldn't be a run for president by the greatest player in the game. It was a fun idea to entertain for a while, with the voice and persona James would bring to the position.
There hadn't been a superstar NBAPA president since Patrick Ewing in 1998, and not one in his prime since Isiah Thomas in the late '80s.
James has too many commitments to give the Players Association the attention it would require, which led to his decision to bypass the opportunity.
From Jeff Zillgitt at USA TODAY Sports:
After days of careful consideration and research, Miami Heat star LeBron James decided he will not run for president or first vice president of the National Basketball Players Association, a person familiar with James’ decision told USA TODAY Sports.
Interested in union matters and the direction of the NBPA, James had considered both executive committee positions comprised of players but concluded he would not have enough time at this point in his career to give the positions the necessary attention they require. James called Heat teammate and NBPA secretary-treasurer James Jones on Monday and told him of his decision.
I wouldn't rule out the possibility of 'Bron doing this later in his career when things slow down, though. He clearly seems to have the best interest of the players at heart.
