Veteran NBA broadcaster Mike Breen has issued an apology after LeBron James publicly disputed a story involving Philadelphia 76ers teammate Joel Embiid during the team’s preseason opener against the New York Knicks.
The controversy began Monday when Breen shared an anecdote during Philadelphia’s 120-97 victory over New York, suggesting James had confronted Embiid for arriving late to practice.
“Somebody told me before the game that they were out ready to practice, and Joel Embiid walked out on the court a couple of minutes late, and LeBron let him hear it,” Breen said during the broadcast.
However, James quickly rejected the account Tuesday on Instagram.
“He ain’t been late so stop the lies,” James wrote.
By Wednesday, Breen acknowledged the controversy and expressed disappointment over how his comments were received.
“I’m so disappointed how the story was interpreted,” Breen told ESPN.
According to Breen, his intention was never to criticize Embiid but rather highlight James’ leadership and the accountability he has brought to Philadelphia.
“I thought it would be an interesting anecdote to show LeBron’s leadership already on display in Philly,” Breen explained.
James sends strong message
The situation attracted additional attention because Embiid previously faced criticism regarding his punctuality during Philadelphia’s disappointing start two seasons ago.
Breen ultimately accepted James’ denial and apologized for repeating the unverified account.
“I don’t know why the person who told me the story would make it up, but if LeBron says it never happened then I believe him and apologize for putting it out there.”
Sixers coach Nick Nurse also defended Embiid following Wednesday’s practice, emphasizing the center’s preparation and conditioning.
“He’s in great shape; he’s been on the practice floor. He’s worked very hard and he looks really great,” Nurse said.
The controversy comes as Philadelphia prepares for a season featuring considerable expectations surrounding its star-studded roster.
Neither James nor Embiid participated in Monday’s preseason victory, but Nurse expects more regular rotation players to see action Thursday against Brooklyn.
For Philadelphia, the priority remains building chemistry rather than allowing outside distractions to dominate headlines.
Meanwhile, Breen’s apology highlights how quickly an unverified locker-room story can create unnecessary controversy around professional athletes.
