Hall of Famer Kareem Abdul-Jabbar criticized LeBron James on Sunday over some of the Los Angeles Lakers star's actions and comments.
"Some of the things he's done and said are really beneath him, as far as I can see," Abdul-Jabbar said, according to ESPN's Dave McMenamin. "Some of the great things that he's done - he's standing on both sides of the fence almost, you know?
Abdul-Jabbar has been publicly critical of James on a couple of occasions this season. In a video posted in early December, he addressed the Lakers forward's "Sam Cassell dance" celebration during the week prior, remarking that "goats don't dance" - a veiled dig at James' claim to being the greatest of all time.
The 74-year-old also took exception to James' social media post on Christmas Eve, in which the Lakers forward suggested he was confused about the difference between COVID-19, the flu, and the common cold. On his Substack blog, Abdul-Jabbar said the post was a "blow to (James') worthy legacy."
The Milwaukee Bucks and Lakers icon said that he'd be willing to have a comprehensive conversation with James regarding his criticisms.
"If he would take the time, I definitely got the time," Abdul-Jabbar said. "I admire the things that he's done that have gotten all our attention. Sending a whole school to college? Wow. That's amazing. His thoughtfulness and willingness to back it up with his wallet - you got to give him credit for that.
"So I'm not throwing stones. … Some of the things he's done, he should be embarrassed about. That's just where I'm coming from."
In a later statement, Abdul-Jabbar reiterated his respect for the four-time MVP and said his earlier remarks were "blown out of proportion."