“You Don’t Say That”: LeBron James Warns Alperen Sengun in Heated Argument During Lakers-Rockets
LeBron James, Alperen Sengun – Imago/Imagn ©LeBron James, Alperen Sengun – Imago/Imagn Alperen Sengun meant it when he claimed there’s no deference when it comes to LeBron James. In fact, it’s a burgeoning rivalry across two different generations. Since the Houston Rockets managed to make a comeback in the series, the Los Angeles Lakers are on edge.
With emotions peaking, tempers flared in the fourth quarter of Game 5 that the Rockets won 99-93. With the lead trimmed to just one game, the animosity between Bron and Sengun takes on a whole new color. The tension erupted at the free-throw line with 5:30 remaining in the fourth quarter when Sengun, frustrated by a whistle in James’ favor, muttered what sounded like, “soft a– call” (in-game audio is still pending) within earshot of the four-time MVP.
James immediately spat out his mouthguard and fired back, schooling the young center on the realities of NBA superstar officiating. “You don’t say that! You’re the only person here who ain’t allowed to say that!
‘Soft a call,’ yea, Ight! ” James repeatedly barked at Sengun before getting to the free throws that he made. The verbal sparring highlighted a physical night where Sengun earlier delivered an elbow in James’ face that looked more characteristic of Jon Jones than an NBA game.
The exchange is further straining a relationship that has become increasingly volatile as the series progresses. The exchange at the charity stripe was the culmination of a physical second half where King James assertively controlled the pace. Earlier in the third quarter, LeBron notched his fifth assist of the night with a pinpoint pass to Rui Hachimura, who drove past Sengun to score.