“He watches film just like it’s basketball!” Dalton Knecht discloses how deeply LeBron James is invested in Madden

Lakers rookie Dalton Knecht revealed details of LeBron James 'obsession' with the popular football game Madden NFL.

“He watches film just like it’s basketball!” Dalton Knecht discloses how deeply LeBron James is invested in Madden

Dalton Knecht reveals LeBron James' Madden NFL obsession

LeBron James’ extraordinary career longevity and dominance in the NBA are testaments to his dedication to the game. But even with nearly 22 seasons under his belt, the four-time NBA champion has his own way of unwinding: Madden NFL. For James, it’s not just a hobby but a passion that runs deep, as Los Angeles Lakers rookie Dalton Knecht recently revealed.

Dalton Knecht, who joined the Lakers in the summer, already knew about LeBron James’ love for Madden but was surprised by the intensity of his engagement with the game. During a Lakers practice, Knecht shared what he had learned about James. He described him as not just a casual player but someone who approaches Madden with the same analytical mindset he brings to basketball.

I’d probably say how much he loves to play Madden. I feel like he always talks about him playing Madden, but I didn’t really know it was that much. He watches it on the plane and stuff. He watches film just like it’s basketball. It’s crazy.

Dalton Knecht said to Dave McMenamin
YouTube video

For James, Madden is definitely more than a casual pastime. This level of engagement certainly speaks volumes about James’ competitive spirit, even if it may be in a virtual arena. It’s no wonder he’s among the top 100 players in Madden 25, as he himself proclaimed earlier this year.

FS Video

LeBron James’ love for football isn’t a recent development, though. A multi-sport athlete in high school, he excelled as a wide receiver before committing fully to basketball. His deep appreciation for the sport has never waned, and Madden might serve as a bridge to that past. However, despite his love for the NFL, James did not hesitate to call out the NFL after the NBA’s spectacular Christmas day slate.

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LeBron James reveals details of conversation with fan on Madden

LeBron James’ love for Madden has been but a blessing for fans of the Lakers star. While it is nearly impossible to ever get access to a one-on-one interaction with a star of James’ caliber, video games serve as a bridge to that barrier. On Friday night, James shared on X about a recent match he played against a user named “ricankilla722,” praising the fun exchange they had during the game.

Just got done playing ‘ricankilla722’ randomly on Madden. Got on the headset. Good game and convo bro! Some good laughs too! lol.

LeBron James via X

The story quickly gained traction, with many claiming to be the lucky opponent. However, one X user, Marc-Anthony Rodriguez, provided a screenshot of the game that confirmed James’ Gamertag and detailed the matchup, a 35-7 blowout win by James, who played as the Baltimore Ravens. What followed was a series of questions from fans to Rodriguez, trying to get an idea of the conversation with James.

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According to Rodriguez, James displayed exceptional skill during the game, particularly on defense. When asked about their conversation, Rodriguez mentioned that James called him ‘funny,’ which is certainly something one doesn’t get to hear of often.