Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James responded directly to critics on Instagram after playing in his first back-to-back game this season. James posted a message aimed at both supporters and detractors following a 141–116 Lakers win over the Atlanta Hawks that snapped a three-game slide. On social media, he wrote:
“No matter if you LOVE or HATE me you will REMEMBER me.”
The statement came just hours after James finished 31 points, 10 assists and nine rebounds in that Hawks victory. Playing on consecutive nights had not happened earlier in the season, as the Lakers monitored his workload due to age-related recovery concerns.
“No matter if you LOVE or HATE me you will REMEMBER me 👑”
LeBron James’ latest IG post 😲
(via @KingJames) pic.twitter.com/JDUg3mu4P2
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) January 15, 2026
Historic 23rd Season’s Physical Demands
At 41 years old, James is in his 23rd NBA season. The league’s all-time scoring leader has been managed cautiously because of back issues and muscle soreness. Before this back-to-back stretch, the team often held him out of the second game to preserve his health.
James went through an intense pregame routine before taking the floor in Atlanta. His preparation included an ice bath, activation drills, stretching, rehab and muscle work just to ensure he could compete at high level.
After the Hawks game, head coach JJ Redick defended James and called the criticism “crazy.” Redick said people outside the organization don’t see the work James puts in every day. “Come be around him every day and see how much this guy cares,” Redick said.
“Every back-to-back for the rest of the season is TBD. I am 41.”
LeBron on back-to-back games 😭
(via @SpectrumSN) pic.twitter.com/zQCynIZFn0
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) January 7, 2026
James Reflects on Respect and Effort
James also shared a deeper message about his commitment to the sport after the back-to-back. He referenced respect for what he calls the “basketball gods” and cited a line inspired by artist Jay-Z about how critics might feel about him when his career ends. “If you can’t respect that, your whole perspective is whack,” he said.
That quote underscores how James sees his legacy and the effort he puts in at this stage. He said he wants to set an example for teammates and young players who watch him night after night.
