Lebron James didn't make that statement about Charles Barkley. An ESPN writer wrote that statement and asked Lebron if he would approve it. Lebron said, "print it".
I honestly believe that sometimes, a sports story is too good to believe. This just didn't happen. Is Lebron frustrated? Yes. Did he say something embarrassing last week after dealing with a difficult series of losses? Yes. Did he make a heroic type statement calling out the NBA comedian who could easily take or accept the abuse? No. But he gladly attached his name to that statement. I hope Barkley calls him out but it probably won't happen. No way this was just an incidental statement released to an ESPN reporter when there was no one else around to hear it or when there were no cameras around to film it.
I'm calling bullscrap! Enjoy your continued fraudulence NBA!