In the latest edition of LeBron James and Steve Nash’s “Mind the Game” podcast, the Los Angeles Lakers superstar reflected on his experience winning a championship for the Lakers during the pandemic-imposed bubble in 2020.
The championship was James’ fourth of his career. He also won Finals MVP that year after defeating the Jimmy Butler-led Miami Heat in six games.
LeBron James Reflects On Winning Title For His Lakers In The Bubble
The NBA bubble at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort in Bay Lake, Florida, was a unique experience, with no fans in attendance and all games played in one location.
It was also a distinct experience for viewers, who were treated to a smorgasbord of elite playoff basketball over three months. James’ Lakers dominated the competition to finish on top — though many discount the championship since all games were played at a neutral site and health restrictions were strict.
When asked for his recollection, James said, “It was the purest form of hoops. It was strictly basketball.”
Nash addressed fans who don’t count the championship as legitimate: “At the end of the day, you’re human beings competing. It doesn’t matter if you’re on the moon or in the bubble.”
James expanded on his reflections: “Everything in the bubble was strictly about basketball…of all my championships I’ve won, that level of focus, like how long can you maintain that focus in order to get the job done.”
He talked about the adjustment period of not having family around or the everyday life a player would be accustomed to, which could be a struggle for some. However, not for James — especially knowing the championship-caliber roster he had: “Once I got there, and I knew the team we had and what we’re capable of, once I locked in, I was like it’s survival of the fittest right now…Let’s hit it!”
That team was an exceptionally well-rounded roster. James had great chemistry with co-star Anthony Davis; they were a fearsome duo, especially in 2020. They were supported by a strong cast that included Dwight Howard, Alex Caruso, Danny Green, and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope — not to mention experienced playoff performers like JaVale McGee and J.R. Smith.
James was sensational in the bubble. According to StatMuse, he finished the bubble stretch averaging 26.2 points, 9.9 rebounds and 8.3 assists per game. In the Finals, he increased those numbers to 29.8 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 8.5 assists, winning his fourth Finals MVP trophy.
