In a pivotal moment during the 2016 NBA Finals, Ty Lue, then the head coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers, delivered a game-changing message to LeBron James at halftime.
Recalling that memorable Game 7, Lue recently shared the details of how he pushed the superstar to elevate his game and lead the Cavaliers to their first-ever NBA title.
At halftime, with the pressure mounting, Lue told LeBron that he needed to be better. Despite LeBron pointing to his stats, Lue insisted that he had to guard Draymond Green and limit turnovers. This unexpected challenge left LeBron initially perplexed, but it ignited a fire within him to rise to the occasion.
The result was a legendary second-half performance from LeBron James, who erupted with 27 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists, playing a grueling 47 minutes. Inspired by Lue’s motivational words, LeBron led the Cavaliers to a historic victory and their first NBA championship in franchise history.
Speaking on the All The Smoke podcast, Lue reflected on LeBron’s extraordinary abilities, saying, “[LeBron] can score 50 anytime he wants… He just wants to play the game the right way. But sometimes the right way is we need you to get 50.”
Lue’s masterful coaching and his ability to push James to deliver his best when it mattered most exemplify the profound impact a coach can have on a game’s outcome.
