In LeBron James’ home state of Ohio, a bar called Linnie decided to stop showing all NBA matches, until the NBA permanently banned the former Cleveland Cavaliers player.

The reason may come from the 36-year-old star’s recent statement about the police shooting of 16-year-old girl Ma’Khia Bryant. After Bryant threatened two other people with a kitchen knife, officer Nicholas Reardon fired four shots into her chest when she did not receive cooperation. Bryant died on the spot.

LeBron James was accused of inciting violence

LeBron James then posted a Tweet with a picture of Officer Reardon and the status line: “Next one.” Later, LeBron deleted the tweet because “it only increases the hate.” Many people have criticized the LA Lakers star for inciting violence.

Linnie’s bar also spoke out against the 36-year-old player on their Facebook page: “If anyone wants to watch NBA basketball, don’t come to Linnie’s. We will not broadcast these matches until the NBA Kick out LeBron James”.

Linnie’s family, the bar owner, wants to ban LeBron James

Reacting to this “ban”, LeBron James used a sarcastic tone on Twitter: “Oh my god! I was planning to go there to watch the game tonight and drink beer. Well, that’s gone!”.

Linnie’s restaurant also immediately received a 1-star storm from LeBron’s fans, bringing the restaurant’s score from 5 stars to less than 3.5 stars in a few days. That forced review site Yelp to temporarily close the restaurant’s review section.

The 1-star storm of LeBron James fans on Yelp is aimed at this restaurant

Here are some comments:

“They kicked my great-grandfather’s feet because he wanted to change the channel to watch the NBA.”

“The owner should keep his mouth shut and pour the beer.”

Despite the 1-star reviews, restaurant owner Linnie is still confident: “The support for the restaurant is increasing and burying negative comments.” A gas station a few kilometers away posted a sign: “Thanks LeBron James, Linnie’s has never been so crowded.”