LeBron takes another shot at Trump

Sep 26, 2017 - 12:13 AM The chaos of an incredible NBA off-season behind him, LeBron James has returned to centre stage. As usual, he didn't disappoint.

James dominated Cleveland's media day as he discussed topics including his Cavaliers future, Kyrie Irving's defection to Boston, a possible reunion with Dwayne Wade and his deep distaste for US President Donald Trump - who he called "a bum" on Twitter.

"He doesn't understand how many kids, no matter the race, look up to the president of the United State for guidance, for leadership, for words of encouragement," James said on Monday.

"He doesn't understand that, and that's what makes me more sick than anything."

Trump created a storm of protests for saying NFL owners should fire players who kneel during the national anthem.

"Even though this state voted for Trump, that doesn't stop me inspiring the people of this state and inspiring the youth," James said.

"I don't even like saying his name. So while I have this platform, I will continue to inspire the state of Ohio ..."

The four-time NBA MVP admitted he was shocked by Irving's trade request and said the par had not spoken since the deal with the Celtics was signed off.

"I tried to give him everything and give him as much of the DNA as I could," he said.

"At some point, when he was ready to take over the keys, I was ready to give them to him.

"So, the only thing I'm upset about is he took a lot of the DNA and a lot of the blueprint to Boston."

While the Cavs have lost one of the league's premier point guards, they have Isaiah Thomas and could reunite James with his former Miami teammate Wade.

"I would love to have D-Wade a part of this team," James said.

"I think he brings another championship pedigree, championship DNA.

"He brings another player to the team who can get guys involved, can make plays and also has a great basketball mind."

A player already on Cleveland's roster is 2011 NBA MVP Derrick Rose, who is desperate to prove his worth once again after a rough patch with knee injuries and patchy form.

"The kid has a lot to prove from competing against him for so many years, especially in Miami when he was in Chicago and knowing the competitor he's been over the years," James said of the 28-year-old Rose

"Been a fan of him for a long time, and I never thought in my wildest dreams that I'd be a teammate of his."

On his previous statements that he will finish his career with Cleveland despite speculation he could be headed to Los Angeles in 2018, James said: "It hasn't changed.

"And that's why I sit up here today, still in this uniform, still ready to lead this franchise to a championship, put us in a position where we can be successful."

Source: AAP