Ex-NCAA champion seeks clarity after LeBron James’ dismal clutch stat goes viral

LeBron James has been excellent in his illustrious career, save for some facets apparently, including shooting in clutch situations. It is something that left former NCAA champion and NBA player Rashad McCants puzzled.

McCants, who won a national title as a member of the 2005 North Carolina Tar Heels, took to social media on Saturday as he reacted to a viral news item about the dismal shooting percentage numbers 'The King' has had in clutch situations.

Citing data gathering site Stathead.com, the article shared that James only made 19-of-107 shots during the last five seconds of a regular season game for a 17.8% clip and 12.5% from deep.

McCants wrote on X (formerly Twitter):

"Is this an actual factual?????"

While LeBron James has had his struggles shooting in the clutch in the regular season, he has been solid overall in the playoffs where he has been counted on by every team he has played for.

In 287 playoff games, the now-40 year old NBA superstar has averaged 28.4 points on 49.7% shooting and 33.2% from three-point land. He also posted nine rebounds, 7.2 assists, 1.7 steals and a block in 41 minutes. James also won four NBA titles, winning Finals MVP each time.

LeBron James says he strives to deliver in clutch situations

While some have taken LeBron James to task for what they perceive of him not delivering in clutch situations, he asserts that he is actually not one to shy from such a challenge. He asserts that he strives to make the right plays each time.

He spoke about it in one of the episodes of The Shop he co-hosts, sharing the mindset he has when put in challenging and pressure-packed moments.

James said:

"What's going in my head? Like you said it's in slow motion, I slow it down as well. It's just about trying to be patient, try not to be over-exertive or try to pre-determine what I'm going to do. It's just kind of read and react..."

He admitted, however, that things do not always go as planned but it has not stopped him from putting himself in such situations, saying:

"I wish it would go in every single time, but I try to put myself in position that I make the right play or come home for the team every single time. That just comes with experience, the best teacher in life is experience and the more and more you get put in those opportunities and those moments, the better off you'll be."

Now on his 22nd year in the NBA, LeBron James still maintains such a mindset for the LA Lakers as he tries to lead them to steady competitiveness. The team is currently at sixth place in the Western Conference with a 22-17 record.