Dillon Brooks delivers brutal put-down of LeBron James: “Not relevant anymore”

Dillon Brooks, the always-controversial forward now with the Phoenix Suns, didn’t mince words when addressing LeBron James. Brooks called the Lakers star “childish” for hinting at retirement, only to reveal the next day that his big announcement was actually a partnership with a cognac brand.

Brooks has always been a character who the NBA loves to spotlight. His outspoken nature makes him a headline magnet, and the rise of social media has only amplified players like him. Throughout NBA history, there have been plenty of figures capable of dominating attention with their statements, and Brooks fits that mold perfectly. On the court, he’s a useful but inconsistent player. Off it, he thrives on stirring conversation, building his own legend every time he opens his mouth.

Brooks and LeBron’s long-running feud

Brooks has long had an unusual fixation on LeBron James. Their rivalry peaked during the first round of the 2023 playoffs, when the seventh-seeded Lakers made a deep run to the Western Conference Finals. Fans were eager to watch the two clash. Naturally, LeBron came out on top, averaging more than 22 points, 11 rebounds, and 5 assists per game, while Brooks struggled with barely 10 points, 3 rebounds, and less than 24% shooting from three, missing 32 of 42 attempts in the series. The results were decisive on every level.

Lakers star labelled “childish”

This time, Brooks may actually have a point. The Suns forward called LeBron “childish,” accusing him of constantly trying to stay in the spotlight. “We are now in the era that LeBron James is not relevant anymore. He has to create drama just to stay in the spotlight,” Brooks told Hoops. His remarks highlight two things: Brooks will continue to throw shade at his supposed arch-nemesis whenever he wants, and LeBron’s recent behavior has rubbed people the wrong way.

That behavior, of course, refers to LeBron’s recent retirement tease. The Lakers superstar hinted that the upcoming 2025-26 season would be his last, only to reveal the next day that the real “announcement” was a deal with a cognac brand.

While it made him the center of attention, probably by design, it also drew criticism from fans and fellow players alike. With the NBA season just days away, the stunt may soon be a minor footnote, but it has given figures like Dillon Brooks another opportunity to speak out. And he never misses one.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.