When LeBron James sends a message on social media, the NBA world pays attention. That's how it works when the league's biggest star has more than 39 million followers on Twitter and 33.5 million on Instagram — plus a habit of targeting opponents and teammates with subtle digs, as a certain former Cavs point guard can certainly tell you.
The four-time MVP caused a stir online again when he posted a popular meme with the one-word caption "Mood..." on Monday night. For those unaware of what the cartoon fist below means, it's an image from the children's television show "Arthur" typically used to express anger or frustration. (Those cool teens and their memes, am I right?)
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This post came right after the Celtics defeated the Hawks, a team that had just beaten the Cavs in Cleveland the day before. Some surmised James was frustrated Kyrie Irving and the rest of the gang in green got the best of the Hawks while the Cavs fell short. Others suggested it was simply early-season irritation with Cleveland's slow start and lackluster defense. It had to mean something, right?
Then Draymond Green sent out his own "Mood..." Instagram message with his tongue sticking out. It appeared to be a joke at James' expense, until Green later explained it had nothing to do with James at all.
FYI people should really stop making assumptions... I'm still trying to figure out how y'all made Bron post out to be about the Celtics...
— Draymond Green (@Money23Green) November 7, 2017
Let alone me posting something to "troll" him and idk wth he even posted about... neither do y'all...
— Draymond Green (@Money23Green) November 7, 2017
I just thought the pic was dope and that was my mood today... I'm always the first to say when I'm going at someone... and always will
— Draymond Green (@Money23Green) November 7, 2017
So today my good people y'all shot and y'all missed!!! 😊😊😊
— Draymond Green (@Money23Green) November 7, 2017
And of course, we had James' follow-up response with the caption "Mood Forever" accompanying a fist-pumping photo compilation.
So, how did James explain his recent social media activity? It's actually quite simple.
"I like Arthur," James said (via ESPN's Dave McMenamin). "That's OK, right?"
Here's the thing: he's not wrong. "Arthur" is a delightful show. It teaches children (and adults) lessons about the values of family and education, not to mention it has a terrific, catchy theme song to kick off each episode.
Now, here's the other thing: come on, man. James is far too smart and savvy to believe there will be no response to what he shares on social media and when he shares it. He is well aware of his ability to create a conversation among NBA media members and fans with just a few quick keystrokes.
Yes, LeBron, it's OK if you enjoy "Arthur." Cool. But let's not pretend this is only about an anthropomorphic aardvark.
