3 years after LeBron James laughed at his defense, Jae Crowder shows appreciation for Lakers superstar following latest gesture

LeBron James made a nice gesture toward former teammate and playoff opponent Jae Crowder on Saturday night. The LA Lakers faced the Sacramento Kings for the second time in three nights as part of their December schedule. James finished the game with 32 points as the Lakers beat the Kings 103-99.

In a post on his Instagram Stories, Crowder shared that he received James' jersey from the game. "The King" personalized the gift by signing it and adding a heartfelt message for the NBA veteran.

"Stay Solid Always my G!" James wrote.

Crowder appreciated the gesture and delivered his own message to the Lakers superstar. He has nothing but respect for the four-time NBA champion after all their postseason battles.

"You lucky I couldn't get a piece of that action today! But I appreciate it killa!! Through all our battles we walk away with respect for one another. Salute my G," Crowder wrote.

Jae Crowder shared this on Instagram. (Photo: Screengrabbed @bossmann99)

Jae Crowder has often been tasked with defending James, starting from his stint with the Boston Celtics from 2014 to 2017. Crowder was also with the Miami Heat when they faced the Lakers in the 2020 NBA Finals.

One of Crowder's most infamous moments defending James occurred in Game 2 of the 2021 Western Conference first-round series. The Marquette alum was guarding "The King" in the fourth quarter when James spun past him, easily driving to the basket for a layup.

The play became viral, especially after James laughed during it, and the bench later mimicked his post-up moves.

Regardless of that moment, Crowder and the Phoenix Suns had the last laugh. They eliminated the Lakers in six games, winning the next three contests. The Suns made the NBA Finals that year before eventually losing to the Milwaukee Bucks.

Crowder now plays for the Sacramento Kings after signing a deal with them in November.

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LeBron James torches Kings with a 32-point performance

LeBron James torches Kings with a 32-point performance. (Photo: IMAGN)

Father Time is slowly catching up to LeBron James this season, but he remains one of the best players in the league. James had a stellar outing against the Sacramento Kings on Saturday, finishing with 32 points, seven rebounds and six assists to give the LA Lakers their third straight win.

Austin Reaves sank two clutch free throws to put the game away as the Lakers defeated the Kings 103-99.

The Lakers head back home for a game against the Detroit Pistons on Monday before their Christmas Day showdown at Chase Center against the Golden State Warriors.