LeBron James will never be above Kobe Bryant or Michael Jordan for me. And reason number forty-six just happened at the All-Star Game.

LeBron waited until the absolute last minute to sit out, which meant the league couldn’t replace him in the lineup. As a result, guys like DeMontis Sabonis or Norman Powell—who actually deserved a spot—were robbed of the opportunity to showcase their talent.

Let’s be real. LeBron knew well before the weekend that his ankle wasn’t 100%. He had ample time to let the league know he wouldn’t be able to go. Instead, he waited until an hour before tip-off to make the announcement. That’s selfish. If he really wanted to handle this the right way, he could’ve at least suited up, played a few minutes, and then sat out. At least the fans—many of whom came specifically to see him—would have gotten something for their money.

But nah, LeBron had to make it about himself. And of course, any criticism of LeBron gets shut down immediately because there’s a segment of fans who refuse to hold him accountable for anything. The man could burn down your house, and some of you would still find a way to defend him.

Let’s call it what it is: LeBron has always been a “me-first” guy. This situation just adds to the long list of instances where he puts himself above the game, above the fans, and above fair competition.

I’ll be honest—Kobe and Jordan? They would have played. No question.