LeBron James Says He Would’ve Pulled an ‘Eli Manning’ if Drafted by Memphis Grizzlies

LeBron James has made it clear that the Memphis Grizzlies are not on his list of potential destinations. During a recent appearance on the “Bob Does Sports” YouTube reveal, the 41-year-old veteran shared a candid perspective on why he would never play for the franchise and suggested the team should relocate entirely.

The ‘Eli Manning’ Comparison

While discussing his career and the 2003 NBA Draft, James joked that the Grizzlies’ only real chance of acquiring him was over two decades ago. He stated that if Memphis had won the 2003 lottery and selected him No. 1 he “might’ve pulled an Eli Manning and not shown up.”

The comment is a direct reference to the 2004 NFL Draft. At that time, quarterback Eli Manning and his agent famously informed the San Diego Chargers that Manning would refuse to play for the team even if they selected him first overall. Whereas the Chargers drafted him anyway, they immediately traded him to the New York Giants in exchange for Philip Rivers.

Criticism of Memphis and the Grind of Travel

James’ remarks weren’t directed at the Grizzlies organization, but rather at the city of Memphis itself. The 23-year veteran expressed frustration with the realities of NBA travel at this stage of his career. He lamented the experience of staying at hotels in cities like Milwaukee and questioned the appeal of being in Memphis on a “random-ass Thursday.”

According to James, these sentiments aren’t his alone. He claimed that other players in the league share his distaste for the city and believe the franchise needs a change of scenery.

The Case for Nashville

Beyond criticizing Memphis, James proposed a specific solution: moving the team 200 miles east to Nashville, Tennessee’s capital and most populous city. James highlighted several reasons why Nashville would be a superior location, noting that the city already possesses:

• Academic Presence: The presence of Vanderbilt University.
• Sports Infrastructure: An existing stadium and a hockey team.
• Cultural Draw: The influence of NASCAR.

James emphasized that the city has “everything” needed to support the franchise, suggesting that the move is an overdue necessity.

Key Takeaways from LeBron’s Remarks

• No Grizzlies Future: James explicitly ruled out playing for Memphis if he leaves the Los Angeles Lakers.
• Draft Regrets: He admitted he might have boycotted the team had they drafted him in 2003.
• Relocation Plea: He believes the Grizzlies should move to Nashville to better accommodate players and leverage the city’s infrastructure.
• Veteran Fatigue: His comments stem largely from the physical and mental toll of NBA travel at age 41.

Looking Ahead

As the 2025-26 NBA season concludes, the basketball world remains focused on whether James will return for a 24th season or enter retirement. While speculation often links him to former teams like the Cleveland Cavaliers or high-profile markets like New York, his recent comments have permanently removed Memphis from the conversation.