LeBron James stunned, “Why are you doing this to me?” while the opponent pauses mid-game to uncover a surprising connection between them

HOUSTON Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. let LeBron James grow old during Monday’s loss to the Los Angeles Lakers.

The 19-year-old Rockets rookie told James his father – Jabari Smith Sr. – played against him in the Lakers All-Star’s NBA debut 20 years ago.

3

3

Smith Sr. was on the Sacramento Kings roster when the Western Conference team beat James and his Cleveland Cavaliers at home on October 29, 2003.

However, he spent the entire game on the bench watching James rack up 25 points, nine assists, six rebounds and four steals to launch his NBA career.

The minor inaccuracy didn’t stop Smith Jr. from revealing the surprising fact in an impromptu conversation with the four-time NBA champion in Houston’s 140-132 loss.

“Hey, you played my dad, your first NBA game ever,” the No. 3 pick in last year’s draft told James, 38, as they stood on the touchline once during the duel.

“For real?” asked the 18-time All-Star.

“Sacramento,” Smith replied.

“Why did you do that to me?” James then asked.

“You feel old, don’t you?” the newcomer replied before the two laughed.

The unexpected discovery didn’t cause James to lose focus as he scored 48 points to secure the win for the Lakers.

He’s been in amazing form since turning 38 on December 30, averaging 37 points, 8.6 assists and 9.7 rebounds in seven games.

3