LeBron James had the entire NBA world on tenterhooks when he posted a teaser video for "The Second Decision" on his social media channels with the caption: "The decision of all decisions. October 7th. 12pm EST."
The expectation was that after 22 years in the NBA, James was set to officially announce his retirement at the end of the season.
As time passed and anticipation built, the Los Angeles Lakers forward reposted a video from Hennessy's X page 64 minutes before schedule... "The Decision has been made. Cheers to year 23. @KingJames."
The Second Decision was in fact related to a cognac advertisement.
It's a far-cry from the initial "Decision" James made in 2010 where he revealed he was departing his hometown team Cleveland Cavaliers to join Miami Heat.
"LeBron, fans want to know where you're taking your talents this year. What's your decision?" the man perched opposite James said in the video.
The NBA's all-time leading scorer went on to reveal a new product launch - a limited edition V.S.O.P bottle, complete with his signature “crowning” gesture front and centre - ahead of his second collaboration with Hennessy.
It was nothing to do with a potential retirement at all.
The short film was produced by James’ SpringHill Company, which he founded in 2020 alongside Maverick Carter.
It will have no doubt irked fans who attempted to purchase tickets for Lakers matches this season in anticipation that it could be the final chance to see the legendary figure in action. Prices for matches at the end of the regular season had skyrocketed with tickets increasing from $85 for the cheapest seat to over $500.
On the video, Hennessy said: "By channelling the original interview – from the set design through to LeBron’s delivery – and elevating it into a timely homage, this cinematic reimagining spotlights LeBron’s personal connection to the collaboration and the communities it honours.”
Lakers fans can breathe easy; everyone else is left rather bemused.
