The Los Angeles Lakers’ preseason matchup with the Golden State Warriors was supposed to be about basketball, but leave it to LeBron James and Austin Reaves to steal the spotlight with a mid‑game golf tutorial.
During a timeout, cameras caught Reaves giving LeBron a quick lesson on his golf swing, complete with hand gestures and follow‑through demonstrations. James, entering his record‑breaking 23rd NBA season, mimicked the motions with a grin, much to the delight of fans in the arena and those watching online.
LeBron getting some golfing tips from Austin Reaves during a timeout 😂⛳️🏌️♂️ pic.twitter.com/MmjTTZfyfM
— Lakers All Day Everyday (@LADEig) October 6, 2025
Golf has become a popular pastime for NBA players, both active and retired. From Steph Curry’s appearances in celebrity tournaments to JR Smith’s collegiate golf career, the sport has become a common outlet for competition and relaxation. LeBron himself has been spotted on the course more frequently in recent summers, and Reaves, who has admitted to being a serious golfer, seems to have taken on the role of unofficial swing coach.
Reaves even joked recently that Bronny James has a smoother swing than his father.
“If I had to put money on it, Bronny’s got him beat,” Reaves said with a laugh.
LeBron may not be ready to trade in his sneakers for spikes just yet, but if his golf game improves this season, fans will know exactly who to thank…
