LeBron defends shoeless celebration after Jazz commentator's criticism

While LeBron James was embarrassed by his egregious, uncalled travel, he has no regrets about his behavior in the closing stages of the Los Angeles Lakers' 121-96 win over the Utah Jazz on Wednesday night.

One of the Jazz's television announcers said that James was disrespectful for coming onto the court in his socks to cheer on teammate Kyle Kuzma after he rejected a pair of shots.

James wasn't wearing shoes because he took off the sneakers he was wearing, signed them, and gave them away to two kids in the stands.

The 34-year-old took to social media on Thursday to address the announcer's remarks. In an Instagram caption below a clip from the broadcast, James wrote:

Imagine doing your job at the highest level to where you're not needed anymore, giving your shoes to a lil girl and boy who you inspire and hoped you made proud that night, then cheering on your teammates cause you love seeing them succeed more than yourself only to be criticized while doing it. People it's the world we live in and you can't let it ever stop you from your purpose in life.

James finished with 20 points, 12 assists, and four boards as the Lakers improved to 19-3 on the season.