“I’m confident because I’m the best player in the world.” ~LeBron James

I’ll be the first to admit, I know little about Mr. James’ career. I know he was drafted out of high school. He is really tall. He has a mean dunk shot. He scores a lot of points. And of course, his shoes cost more than Jordans!

I, like thousands of other Bay Area residents, got swept up in the “Strength in Numbers” campaign by the Warriors.  Otherwise, LeBron James wouldn’t have even been a blip on my already crowded Mommy Radar.

I’m not here to challenge Mr. James’ prowess on the court, but I wonder what gave him the idea it was okay to call himself “the greatest player in the world”. For all he knows, there is a kid in Hayward throwing from half court with 95% accuracy.  There are always great players in every game, but the sun always sets. And those who were great, become statistics of the game’s history and oft times forgotten.

It doesn’t seem like it should bother me so much, but the on and off court shows that LeBron put on left a sour taste in this mom’s mouth.  From the whining for calls the ref never called to overplayed ego trips, LeBron is the last person I would want my child to look up to.

There are many parents and coaches who spend time teaching kids that there is no “I” in team. While someone may play better than you, that person will always need a supporting cast.  And that supporting cast includes your contributions to the team. I’ll admit the trophies for everyone movement is a bit much, but at least it cultivates a culture of teamwork far more than singling out Johnny.

The one thing that LeBron has proven is that trash talk is still alive.  That the best of us can get an overinflated sense of self-importance. His example is best used as a cautionary tale to teach humility.  When you feel like you’re so great that you alone can carry your team to victory, you’re overlooking the importance of a good support system and the importance of teamwork.