LeBron James stirred controversy after a viral clip showed him enjoying Kendrick Lamar’s diss track “Not Like Us,” which targets rapper Drake.
Popular streamer Adin Ross called out the NBA star during a livestream on July 22, 2025, describing it as a “massive betrayal.” Ross expressed his disappointment, stating, “I’ve loved LeBron my whole life, but dancing to a song that calls Drake a pedophile, especially after he met his kids, is disgusting.” This incident has divided fans and reignited debates about loyalty in celebrity friendships. Below, we explore the feud, public reactions, and its cultural impact, based on reports from Billboard and Complex.
LeBron James and Drake have maintained a visible friendship, evident from their courtside appearances together and their collaboration on the 2009 music video “Forever.” Recently, Rick Ross criticised LeBron for his apparent support of Lamar’s track, stating, “Loyalty is loyalty. And this ain’t it.” He went on to clarify, “Bronny’s a good kid. This has nothing to do with him.” A clip showing LeBron dancing at Lamar’s “Pop Out” show sparked accusations of disloyalty, especially considering the track’s personal attacks on Drake.
Adin Ross just put LeBron James on blast for rapping along to Kendrick's "Not Like Us". Ross says LeBron's recent moves changed his whole perspective. Get the full story: https://t.co/dWziMdKMqP pic.twitter.com/48F59xUz7j
— Complex (@Complex) July 23, 2025The backlash exploded on X, with fans split. Some defended LeBron’s freedom to enjoy music, with comments like: “He’s just vibing, relax.” Others echoed Ross, calling him opportunistic. One X user wrote: “LeBron’s a piece of s**t for this.” The debate highlights the cultural significance of “Not Like Us,” described by Billboard as a phenomenon that divides celebrities and fans.
Wayno reacts to LeBron James and Savannah James enjoying Kendrick Lamar "Not Like Us," and how this has caused a divide on social media with streamers like Adin Ross criticising LeBron for being disloyal to Drake pic.twitter.com/BHiETJVnx4
— joebuddenclips/fanpage (@Chatnigga101) July 23, 2025Context of the Kendrick Lamar-Drake Feud
“Not Like Us” intensified the Lamar-Drake rivalry, with its provocative lyrics sparking widespread discussion. LeBron’s involvement, alongside his cameo in Tyler, the Creator’s video featuring Drake, criticises Clipse, suggesting a shift in allegiance, although he hasn’t commented publicly.
@photonewspk LeBron James and Savannah James seen singing Kendrick Lamar's “Not Like Us” #lebron #kingjames #nba2k #nbaedits #kendricklamar #notlikeus #lamar #hiphop #hiphopmusic ♬ original sound – PhotoNews
The controversy highlights the intersection of music and sports in pop culture. Complex notes the song’s influence, with NBA stars subtly picking sides. The lack of response from LeBron and Drake keeps the narrative alive online.
Read: Drake Disses LeBron James on New Track “What Did I Miss?” from ICEMAN Album
