LeBron James golfing (Image via Instagram) LeBron James has long been a fan-favorite on the basketball court with his unmatched skills. But in the summer of 2025, the Los Angeles Lakers superstar became the subject of lighthearted trolling – not for his jump shot or highlight-reel dunks, but for his “stiff” golf swing that quickly went viral and drew reactions from NFL legends, NBA peers, and fans alike.
LeBron James Takes His First Swings on the Golf Course
During the NBA offseason, LeBron James began exploring golf as a new hobby, often playing alongside his son Bronny James. He documented his early attempts on social media, posting videos of his tee shots. In one clip, he admitted, “Day 2 of trying this! Boy oh boy, it’s a mind f**k to say the least! But I really love that part – humbling!”
Unc & Iso Joe DEBATE if LeBron James should join the Warriors or stay with Luka?! | Nightcap
Despite his excitement, the footage revealed a swing that reminded many of Charles Barkley’s famously awkward form. With stiff shoulders, minimal wrist action, and a rigid motion, LeBron’s golf swing became an instant talking point online.
Shannon Sharpe, Chad Johnson, and Joe Johnson Roast the Swing
The viral videos caught the attention of NFL Hall of Famer Shannon Sharpe, former wide receiver Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson, and ex-NBA star Joe Johnson, who dissected LeBron James’ form on their popular show Nightcap.Shannon Sharpe joked about James’ “robotic” shoulder movement, while Chad Johnson quipped, “Bronny should’ve booked his dad a lesson instead of just bringing him to the course.” Joe Johnson offered encouragement, saying, “He’s going to be alright, though. Just keep working.”The consensus: LeBron’s swing was comically stiff, but with practice, he could improve.
NBA and PGA Stars Join the Banter
The fun didn’t stop with NFL legends. Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry, an avid golfer, joined in by posting a hilarious impersonation of LeBron’s follow-through. Curry welcomed him to the sport, joking, “The game needs you, big fella.”PGA Tour pro Jordan Spieth analyzed LeBron’s swing more seriously, pointing out his “lack of wrist flexibility and limited backswing.” Still, Spieth was optimistic, saying LeBron could “add 30 yards in 30 minutes” with the right adjustments.Fans piled on with memes, calling LeBron’s form a “visual headache” and joking about whether he even knew where the ball landed.
LeBron James Responds With Humor and Determination
Despite the trolling, LeBron James took the jokes in stride. He described golf as “addictive” and vowed to keep practicing, rain or shine. His persistence drew support from NBA stars like Jayson Tatum and pro golfer Min Woo Lee, who praised his willingness to step out of his comfort zone.True to his reputation, LeBron approached golf with the same relentless mindset he brings to basketball: a commitment to learning, grinding, and eventually mastering the challenge.
Why Fans Loved Seeing This Side of LeBron
This viral golf saga struck a chord because it showed a rare, vulnerable side of one of the world’s greatest athletes. Watching LeBron struggle – and laugh at himself – made him more relatable, while also sparking a fun crossover between basketball, football, and golf communities.As LeBron himself summed up: “You gotta fall in love with the game. We all probably looked like this when we first got out there… just keep practicing, and it’s only up from here.”Also read: LeBron James Returns to China With Nike’s Forever King Tour After 20 YearsWhether he improves his swing or not, the moment highlights that even legends need to start somewhere – and sometimes, greatness begins with a few awkward swings.
