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Kevin Garnett offers up high praise for LeBron's playoff run, success of NBA bubble

Kevin Garnett is tossing some praise to both commissioner Adam Silver and Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James.

“Adam has done a great job of managing the emotions of the players given the recent climate of protests and different racial issues,” Garnett told Yahoo Sports in a telephone interview. “He uses his platform to advocate for what the players want and helps manage their expectations ... Adam is setting the example of how a commissioner should lead.”

Garnett on LeBron: ‘He brings out the best in his teammates’

Even in this 17th year in the NBA and in the midst of another conference finals series, James shows zero signs of exhaustion.

“He’s the most unselfish player we’ve ever had,” The Big Ticket said. “His superpower has always the ability to bring out the best in his teammates. The King has a real finesse of when to attack, when to be aggressive and when to play it safe. You can tell missing his first postseason since 2005 last year brought out a very focused player in him this season. LeBron’s attention to detail is unmatched. He does a great job of focusing on the strengths of the competition and fine-tuning his own game to rival that intensity.”

Boston Celtics forward Kevin Garnett is guarded closely by Miami Heat forward LeBron James during the third quarter in Game 5 of the NBA Eastern Conference Finals, Tuesday, June 5, 2012, at AmericanAirlines Arena in Miami, Florida. (Michael Laughlin/Sun Sentinel/Tribune News Service via Getty Images)
Garnett had nothing but positive sentiments about his former opponent LeBron James. (Michael Laughlin/Sun Sentinel/Tribune News Service via Getty Images)

The fans are ‘a real component of sports,’ says Garnett

Though millions of fans nationwide have been tuning in on game day to watch their favorite city play, Garnett says it probably doesn’t compare to having tens of thousands inside the franchise’s home arena.

“Imagine doing something with your crew. It doesn’t matter if you’re racing, freestyling, whatever. When they’re hyping you up, you naturally want to perform at your best. The energy in a packed arena is so electric. As athletes, we feed off of that and we’ve been spoiled by that. I’ve been out the game for several years and I still remember moments where I would have never played my best if it weren’t for our supporters.”

Garnett has carried the fan love into his new partnership with Crown Royal. Starring in two commercials, the 2004 league MVP is using his platform to encourage fans to drink responsibly on game day and beyond.

“There has to be a responsible voice in the room to set the standard, and I’m happy to be that voice for millions across the country. You’re never too cool to have a water break,” KG said.

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