West Australian sporting clubs have taken to social media to humorously pitch their cases to recruit NBA superstar LeBron James after news broke that he would leave the Los Angeles Lakers. The 41-year-old four-time NBA champion is expected to join the Golden State Warriors, but that hasn't stopped WA teams from dreaming big.
Perth Wildcats Lead the Charge
The Perth Wildcats, the NBL franchise, posted a doctored image of James wearing their guernsey on Instagram, sparking a wave of similar posts from other clubs. The Wildcats have a history of attracting high-profile players, but landing James would be a stretch even for them.
WAFL Teams Join the Fun
WAFL club Swan Districts put James in the jumper of retired ruckman Nathan Blakely, while East Fremantle placed him in the No. 1 jersey previously worn by Milan Murdock. The posts were clearly in jest, as James is unlikely to trade basketball for Australian rules football.
Cricket and Hockey Offers
Big Bash League franchise Perth Scorchers also put their case forward, suggesting James could try his hand at cricket. The Perth Thundersticks, a field hockey team, joined in despite the unlikelihood of James picking up a hockey stick. Bell Tower Times even linked James to NBL1 West side Willetton Tigers.
While the chances of James moving to WA are virtually zero, the playful recruitment pitches highlight the excitement around his free agency. As one social media user joked, "He might like the low-key life of Scarborough beach on a Saturday and a coffee down the strip at Fremantle."
