LeBron James Explains Why Lakers Championship Teammate Isn’t a Head Coach Yet

LeBron James spoke about his former teammate and explained why he refuses to be a head coach.

LeBron James has officially launched his new podcast with former NBA player, JJ Redick. The conversations on the podcast are all about the ins and outs of basketball, and James spoke about his former teammate, Rajon Rondo. 

Rondo and James played together for the Lakers when the team took home the championship in 2020. Despite Rondo not having officially retired, he has not played since the 2022 season. 

James spoke about Rondo on his new podcast, stating that his former teammate has a high IQ for basketball, but won't get into becoming a head coach for one specific reason. 

LeBron James on Rajon Rondo:

“He could do things on the go. It’s very weird to me that he’s not coaching at a high level - I think it’s because he doesn’t want to do it. Who wants to deal with these rich entitled guys all the time?”

(via @mindthegamepod) pic.twitter.com/AgwgAuHoVr

— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) March 19, 2024

"He could do things on the go. It’s very weird to me that he’s not coaching at a high level - I think it’s because he doesn’t want to do it. Who wants to deal with these rich entitled guys all the time?"

via 

LeBron James, Mind the Game Pod

Rondo spent 19 years in the NBA and has undoubtedly brought in a ton of knowledge while playing the game at a high level. 

Many former players have transitioned into coaching careers, but James has indicated that Rondo would not want to deal with the potential bureaucracy of being a head coach. 

Rondo might still find his way to coach, but it might have to be the perfect situation where he is given the freedom to build a team while not dealing with interference from owners.