Michael Wilbon Opens Up To OutKick About LeBron James, Stephen A. Smith, Windhorst, & More

Michael Wilbon is arguably the most revered sports writer and commentator of this generation. He is one of the few people in the world of sports who both LeBron James and Stephen A. Smith have admitted they admire. 

So, instead of sharing my thoughts about the ongoing viral feud between James and Smith, we thought it'd be more impactful to share the perspective of someone who knows both men well.

On Thursday night, Wilbon spoke to OutKick exclusively for the first time about James' recent criticisms of the media, ESPN, and Wilbon's colleagues Stephen A. Smith and Brian Windhorst.

Bobby Burack: Michael, why now? Why is LeBron James, for the first time in his 22-year career, choosing to fight with the media?

Michael Wilbon: First, I appreciate you reaching out to me, Bobby, and tackling this story responsibly. I don't know. I haven't talked to LeBron about it. I haven't been around him this year, not yet. But I'd love to talk to him about it and I will the next time I see him.

I have been doing this for 45 years, talking to athletes in every sport. I don't come from the ESPN generation of covering only one sport. I covered everyone from Mike Tyson to Carl Lewis to Chris Evert, from Michael Jordan to LeBron James, from Kobe Bryant to Cal Ripken. And LeBron is as good as anyone--ever. I've covered them all. Magic, Bird, and no one is better than LeBron when it comes to being engaging and patient with the media. Nobody. So, I don't know where all of this is coming from. 

I'm telling you, Bobby, no one has been better with the media than LeBron. He actually answers your question. He listens. He is thoroughly engaged when he talks to you or gives you time. I almost want to give him a pass because it's just a week in his