Gilbert Rejects Djokovic-LeBron Comparison, Criticizes NBA Star's 'Flopping'

Tennis coach Brad Gilbert harshly condemns LeBron James' constant flopping, dismissing comparisons to tennis icon Novak Djokovic.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 6:34am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Renowned tennis coach Brad Gilbert has once again criticized NBA superstar LeBron James, this time for his excessive flopping and constant complaining about calls. Gilbert firmly rejected comparisons between James and 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic, calling James a 'Laflopper' and saying 'can't compare Laflopper to Djoker'.

Why it matters

The ongoing debate over player conduct and sportsmanship in both tennis and basketball has intensified, with Gilbert's comments adding fuel to the fire. As two of the most dominant athletes of their era, the perceived differences in how Djokovic and James carry themselves on the court/court have become a point of discussion among fans and analysts.

The details

Gilbert, who previously coached Coco Gauff, has been outspoken in his criticism of LeBron James' flopping and complaining. He recently dismissed speculation that the Golden State Warriors could pursue James in free agency, instead advocating for the team to focus on younger, more athletic wings. Gilbert has repeatedly called out James' 'constant LaFlopping' and 'everything wrong with the new NBA', rejecting comparisons between the NBA star and tennis legend Novak Djokovic.

  • On March 28, 2026, Gilbert criticized James' flopping and complaining in a Twitter exchange with a fan.
  • On March 29, 2026, Gilbert firmly rejected a comparison between James and Djokovic, calling James 'Laflopper' and saying 'can't compare Laflopper to Djoker'.

The players

Brad Gilbert

A former professional tennis player and coach, known for his outspoken criticism of players' conduct, including his recent comments targeting LeBron James.

LeBron James

A four-time NBA champion and four-time MVP, considered one of the greatest basketball players of all time, but has faced criticism for his perceived flopping and complaining about calls.

Novak Djokovic

A 24-time Grand Slam champion and one of the most dominant tennis players of the modern era, known for his mental toughness and sportsmanship on the court.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“He's a great player undoubtedly but can't stand his constant LaFlopping 5-10: a game forever, and constantly complaining every call ☎️, everything wrong 😑 with the new nba.”

— Brad Gilbert, Tennis Coach

“can't compare Laflopper to Djoker”

— Brad Gilbert, Tennis Coach

The takeaway

This debate highlights the ongoing tension between sportsmanship and perceived gamesmanship in professional sports, as well as the differing perceptions of how elite athletes should conduct themselves on the court/field. The contrast between Djokovic's reputation for mental toughness and sportsmanship, and the criticism of James' flopping and complaining, has become a point of discussion among fans and analysts.