LeBron James accused of fraud by betrayed fan: he thought he’d witness his last game… he’s suing

What was meant to be a simple Hennessy publicity stunt turned into a legal fiasco. By trying to recreate « The Decision » scenario, LeBron James triggered fans’ anger and an unexpected lawsuit.

A staged event that turns into legal disaster

LeBron James faces an unprecedented situation after his failed publicity stunt around « The Second Decision ». What was supposed to be a simple advertising campaign for Hennessy quickly turned into bad publicity. Worse still, the matter led to a lawsuit filed by a disappointed fan.

Referencing « The Decision », the show where he announced his departure from Cleveland to Miami, LeBron James had teased a new announcement called « The Second Decision ». Fans quickly believed it could be the « King’s » possible retirement, creating genuine emotion in the basketball world.

According to TMZ Sports, Andrew Garcia, a 29-year-old Lakers fan, rushed to buy tickets for $865.66. He feared missing LeBron’s final game against the Cavaliers, scheduled for March 31 at the Crypto.com Arena. However, disappointment was immense when LeBron revealed it was simply a commercial collaboration with Hennessy. As a result, Garcia filed a lawsuit in Los Angeles court, accusing the star of fraud, deception and misrepresentation. He demands reimbursement for tickets that became, according to him, worthless in seconds.

🚨 Un fan des Los Angeles Lakers a porté plainte contre LeBron James après le coup de com’ du King pour une marque de Cognac. Il lui réclame des dommages et intérêts.https://t.co/NNRHzEfD8U pic.twitter.com/zUX0ROuKB9

— RMC Sport (@RMCsport) October 9, 2025

Media outcry and a communication lesson

The operation sparked strong reactions. On RMC, in the Moscato Show, former rugby player Vincent Moscato didn’t mince words: « He’s got nothing in his pants. He’s a fool. »

Andrew Garcia explains he would never have bought these tickets « if he hadn’t believed in LeBron’s retirement« . According to him, « it’s as simple as that. »
Ultimately, this case shows how poorly managed communication can backfire on its author. Even a global icon like LeBron James isn’t immune to a media fiasco. His reputation, until now exemplary, emerges weakened.