LeBron James’ emotional return to Cleveland quickly turned into a social-media firestorm. As the hometown hero returned once again, tears flowed during the tribute video, and the crowd warmly welcomed its former star while still rallying behind a Cavs team forging its own identity. But the postgame conversation took a sharp and unexpected turn.

After the game, a viral post claimed that sophomore Cavs guard Jaylon Tyson had been fined $35,000 by the NBA for his postgame comments about James. Framed as breaking news and citing no sources, the post quickly gained traction on X.

The claim spread fast because of what was said. After the game, Tyson and star guard Donovan Mitchell were interviewed, and Tyson said something that many took offense to:

“This is Donovan Mitchell’s city now… When he comes back here, we’re going to make sure that everybody roots for him like they did for [James]. This is his city.”

However, the claim is false. There has not been any fine handed out that was corroborated by league announcements, insiders, reporters, or the Cavaliers organization. The league also rarely fines players for comments like Tyson’s, especially since he never explicitly disrespected James.

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Tyson’s comments were meant to elevate his teammate, not diminish James. Fans can debate the comparison, but the intent was never disrespectful—a point Mitchell immediately reinforced.

“At the end of the day, [James] laid the foundation,” Mitchell said immediately after Tyson’s comment. “At the end of the day, first title in 50-something years. For us, we’re trying to do – obviously differently – but like, at the end of the day, we’re trying to find ways to go out there and bring the city another championship.”

Jaylon Tyson Walks Back His Comments, Shows Respect to LeBron James

During his solo interview, Jaylon Tyson made a clear statement on his previous comments, highlighting that he didn’t mean to disrespect James or offend the fans.

“That’s one of the greatest players to ever play the game,” he said of James. “Obviously, I was a Cavs fan growing up because of [James]. I didn’t want to take away [from] him, but I just wanted to give Don his flowers.”

The forward went on to take “personal responsibility” for anyone offended by his comments, apologizing profusely.

Tyson’s comments come at a particularly interesting time for James and the Cavs, as rumors of a third stint in his hometown continue to gain traction. Who knows, maybe both sides of the supposed conflict will be united by the time next season rolls around.