I imagine LeBron James does whatever his advisors tell him to do. He believes he needs to do what is best for his brand and the people associated with it. If LeBron speaks negatively about China, there would have been tremendous financial consequences that would have impacted many. Would I have liked for him to stand behind the USA? Absolutely.
When it comes to the LeBron/Kobe situation, this is a no-win situation for LeBron with some of you. LeBron James is the most recognizable player in the NBA right now, he is the leader of the team that Kobe played on, he just passed Kobe's scoring accomplishment, and he is a friend of Kobe's. LeBron was not trying to put the spotlight on himself. He knew whatever he said/did was going to be dissected by his critics. He did not want any of the spotlight yesterday.....and some criticize him.