A disgruntled fan is reportedly planning to serve Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James with legal papers, right in the middle of a game at Crypto.com Arena. The move stems from the viral controversy surrounding LeBron’s recent “Second Decision” teaser, which many fans believed would be a major career announcement, possibly retirement. Instead, the reveal turned out to be a marketing stunt for Hennessy, leaving some fans feeling duped.
The fan in question, Andrew Garcia, a self-proclaimed Lakers superfan, has taken his frustration to court. Garcia filed a small claims lawsuit against James, accusing him of fraud and deception after purchasing expensive tickets to what he thought would be a historic moment.
“If he’s unwilling to get served at his residence, the Beverly Hills address that’s listed on the filing, I’m going to have to have a process server serve him at Crypto.com Arena during a game,” Garcia told The Athletic. “This is not going away. I’m standing up for what I believe, and I also feel like I’m standing up for other fans who were victims of the same stunt”.
California law allows plaintiffs in small claims court to serve defendants personally, and Garcia appears determined to do just that, potentially during live gameplay. Imagine the spectacle of a fan attempting to serve legal documents to LeBron James one of the most recognizable athletes on the planet in front of thousands of spectators and cameras.
LeBron James has not publicly responded to the lawsuit or Garcia’s plans. The Lakers organization has also remained silent on the matter, though security protocols at NBA arenas may complicate Garcia’s efforts.
