LeBron James and Jeremiah Smith (IG: lakers, Jeremiah Smith)
Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith was left spellbound by the post-game remarks of NBA icon LeBron James. The Buckeyes thrashed Michigan State 38-7 in a Saturday game at the Spartan Stadium.
The freshman finished the game with 102 yards and two touchdowns on five receptions. Just before halftime, he made two one-handed catches — for the first one, he reached up high, and for the second, he stretched out in front to grab the ball.
“JEREMIAH SMITH!!!! MAN KNOCK IT OFF!!!! MY GOODNESS O-H..,” LeBron James tweeted following the match.
Ohio State writer Dan Hope told Smith about the NBA star’s comment after the game and the receiver gushed about the reaction from his role model.
“It means a lot. Growing up, just watching LeBron and looking up to him and the things that he was doing on the basketball side, it’s pretty cool to me,” Jeremiah said.
Lebron James’ consistent interest in college sports
LeBron James, the four-time NBA champion, has consistently shown a keen interest in college sports.
In late August, James sent out a tweet praising Colorado Buffaloes star Travis Hunter after his stunning performance against the ND State. Hunter recorded 132 yards and three touchdowns on seven receptions.
“MAN TRAVIS HUNTER IS RIDICULOUS!!!!! WOW,” James tweeted.
Moreover, after the Week 4 game against Baylor, LeBron sent a gift to Colorado coach Deion Sanders. Hunter entered the stadium tunnel and picked up the gift. The 6-foot-1 cornerback/wide receiver unboxed the gift, which turned out to be LeBron’s signature shoes.
“Ohhh Lebron, LeBron’s,” Travis said. “Size 12, apprecaite you. GOAT, appreciate you. I know you sent these to Coach Prime but you ain’t never heard of me though… Hehe, I like to take shoes.”
LeBron has also shown strong support for college basketball athletes. In an interview with Brian O’Keefe, James spoke highly about Duke freshman Cooper Flagg.
“It’s all about the farm system and continuing to grow the younger generation,” James said. “Cooper Flagg, who’s going to be a big-time player here for Team USA down the road.”
Flagg played against LeBron James in July during the friendly game between the US Olympic team and the Select Team.
