Jay-Z’s massive hit “Empire State of Mind” leaves no doubt how the rapper feels about New York.
So when the bright lights didn’t inspire LeBron James, a close friend, it’s understandable Jay-Z would be a bit disappointed. But when James didn’t even bother to consult Jay-Z, the part-owner of the Nets was anything but pleased.
According to Mediatakeout.com, word from Jay-Z’s camp is that the hip-hop mogul is upset that James didn’t bother conferring with him before signing with Miami on July 8, the New York Daily News reports.
“He didn’t even take [Jay-Z’s] calls,” a source told Mediatakeout.com about James. “It made [Jay-Z] look like he couldn’t deliver to the Nets management. If Jay-Z could have landed a star player, he could have been seen as a legitimate asset to the team. Now they see him as just dead weight.”
That opinion may be a little strong, given Jay-Z invested only $1 million in the Nets and remains the most recognizable name connected to the organization. Jay-Z didn’t expect James to join his team, the source said, but the rap mogul would have at least liked a phone call from the NBA’s biggest superstar.
“Jay never expected LeBron to sign with the Nets,” the source said. “He knew that no 25-year-old kid with James’ profile was going to spend years in Newark. But he’s pissed, or at least disappointed, that LeBron didn’t consult with him.”
Despite the reported animosity, Jay-Z and James are not feuding. In fact, the source believes their relationship will remain unchanged.
“I don’t think it’s going to affect their friendship,” the source offered.
Perhaps James should pay a visit to Jay-Z and make amends in the city that never sleeps.
