Here we go again.  Right when it seemed like LeBron (formerly Le-BRONZE, but now he has a gold medal) James started to get me to eat my critical words about him, he goes and does another unprofessional and childish thing.  The latest chapter in the life of the NBA's most pampered and hyped superstar is his refusal to shake hands with the Orlando Magic after they were thoroughly destroyed by them in the 2009 Eastern Conference Finals, and also skipping out on the post game press conference.

Now don't get me wrong.  I can be as sore as a loser as they come, but playing Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2009 on the Playstation 3 and playing in the NBA Eastern Conference Finals are two different things.  I think athletes often forget that it is PART OF THEIR JOB to address the media after wins AND losses.  That doesn't even address the classlessness and lack of sportsmanship he displayed by not acknowledging the Magic after their win.  I've got three words for you: MAN UP, LEBRON!

With that being said almost everyone I've heard of  who has ever had contact with LeBron James says he is a wonderful person. That has teammates love for him in genuine not manufactured (like say Kobe Bryant). So this isn't a knock on him personally this is more of a professional critique.

In the heat of the moment, I can understand Lebron's frustration and even his actions at the time, but the fact that he had a chance to reflect on his actions the next day and he still tried to justify the unsportsmanlike conduct from the day before just shows me he is still immature and not fully ready to take the baton from Kobe Bryant just yet.  And if he's not careful, Dwyane Wade might just snatch the baton instead.

He quoted himself as "being a winner" and how he's "not going to congratulate someone after they beat you up", but what has LeBron really won?  He wouldn't have his gold medal without Kobe and Dwayne, and the last time he was in the NBA Finals, he got swept under the rug by the Spurs.  LeBron is an exceptional talent and a team leader.  But a winner?  I beg to differ.  With his accomplishments in the NBA, he is just as much of a winner as Dirk Nowitski (who, ironically is the last NBA MVP to not make it to the NBA Finals the year he won MVP).  I know it sounds harsh, but it's as true as true can get.

Here is what LeBron should do in the future to make sure this never happens again.  Whenever he does something, just think of five random all-time great NBA players and what you believe they would do in the situation.  If at least four out of five would not take said action, then don't do it.  He'll get through most situations looking really good if he does that.

All the great ones lose sometimes.  It's in the way an individual handles adversity which shows true character.  Magic, Karl Malone, Tim Duncan, & even Kobe Bryant faced the media when they lost in title games.  Do you think you're better than them?  I hope not. 

Once again, MAN UP, LeBron!  Please don't cry in the car.