In the years after LeBron James‘ 2010 free agency, the star forward is still catching flak for joining the Miami Heat. The move changed the course of James’ career while creating a lingering disdain that still follows him. However, James’ decision led Kobe Bryant to express a much different sentiment toward his colleague with a single text message.

LeBron James decides to form a Big 3 with the Miami Heat

After spending his first seven seasons with the Cavaliers, James chose to form a superstar trio with the Heat alongside Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh.

The move led him to finally experience championship success, earning a pair of NBA titles in four straight Finals trips. The star forward headlined the charge, winning two Finals MVP awards and two regular-season MVP awards.

Before James started his journey in a Heat uniform, Kobe Bryant sent him a firm warning through a single text message.

Kobe Bryant torched LeBron James with a single text message after the 2010 decision to join the Miami Heat

At the time of James’ free agency decision, Bryant was only a few weeks removed from leading the Lakers to a second straight NBA title.

The star guard’s confidence was at an all-time high after earning his fifth championship in dramatic fashion in seven games over the Boston Celtics, which he later called his most satisfying title win. Before James embarked on his first campaign with the Heat, Bryant sent the star forward a text message with a firm remark.

“Go ahead and get another MVP, if you want,” Bryant said via Bleacher Report. “And find the city you want to live in. But we’re going to win the championship. Don’t worry about it.”

It doesn’t come as much of a surprise to hear Bryant express the utmost confidence in his ability. He’s still playing at an elite level coming off back-to-back championships, giving him even more reason to send James a stern warning.

Despite Bryant’s valiant efforts, the Lakers fell in the second round of the playoffs to the Dallas Mavericks. Meanwhile, James and Heat suffered the same fate in the NBA Finals against the Mavericks, losing in six games after claiming a 2-0 series lead.

Nonetheless, Bryant’s confident words speak to the legendary mentality he had toward his craft that pushed him to greatness over his illustrious two-decade Hall of Fame career.

LeBron is adding another chapter to his legacy in a Lakers’ uniform

James’ career path has led him to a tenure with the Lakers, where he’s carved out another memorable part of his legacy.

In his three-plus seasons in Los Angeles, he’s guided the franchise two playoff appearances, headlined by winning the 2020 NBA title. James is adding to his resume with a remarkable 19th campaign sustaining behind his elite level of play.

The 37-year-old remains an ageless wonder behind his remarkable production. He’s leading the Lakers with 28.6 points, the highest average for a player in their 19th season. Meanwhile, his seven straight 30-point performances are the most for any player age 36 or older.

James isn’t showing any sign of slowing down, which further underlines that he will likely extend his playing days, far exceeding the final year of his contract in the 2022-23 season. He has eyes toward playing long enough to potentially play with his son Bronny James.

Beyond all that, the 17-time All-Star’s career remains an open book where he will add many more impressive feats to his name before he steps into retirement.

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