"Not sure if this dude can read or write": Jason Whitlock sends message to 'Bronsexuals' after deriding LeBron James over liquor promotion 

LeBron James teased an announcement on Monday, sparking speculation about his possible next career move ahead of the 2025-2026 NBA season. However, the announcement ended up being a commercial about his partnership with a liquor brand when it came out on Tuesday.

One of James' biggest critics Jason Whitlock has aired his sentiments about the advertisement stunt in his show Fearless on YouTube as he took shots at LeBron's fans, whom he called "Bronsexuals."

"Bronsexuals. There we go. The Bronsexuals, they try to pretend like LeBron is some genius," Whitlock said. "That LeBron is some influencer that's ahead of the conversation and he's so genius on what he's doing." (From 3:51)

"And I'm like, 'No, man. I'm not sure if this dude can read, write, comprehend. I mean, he's a really talented jock and that generally speaking undermines education.' And this is proof of it," he added.

The ad mimicked James' famous "The Decision" segment, which aired on ESPN in the summer of 2010. In that segment, James revealed that he signed with the Miami Heat, leaving his hometown team Cleveland Cavaliers.

James went on to win two championships in Miami in 2012 and 2013, before returning to Cleveland in 2015.

When the ad's teaser was released, many speculated about James' retirement, considering he will be entering a record 23rd season in the NBA. Now at 40 years old, the LA Lakers superstar remains the oldest active player in the league.

---

Lakers head coach JJ Redick reacts on LeBron James' liquor ad

Many found humor in LeBron James' liquor ad, including his head coach, JJ Redick. The Lakers' head coach and former podcast host poked fun at the media that covered the James ad, saying that they did not lose sleep from the stunt

"You guys are idiots," Redick, who will be coaching the Lakers for the second straight season, said. "We all knew it was an ad, right? Nobody was freaking out."

James is expected to continue to be the Lakers' leader for this season, alongside his superstar teammate Luka Doncic.

The Lakers are seen to be one of the top contenders in the Western Conference, following the additions of DeAndre Ayton and Marcus Smart during the offseason.

The team will open its regular season campaign against the Golden State Warriors on Oct. 21.