NFL Analyst Sounds Off On LeBron James Using His Platform To Promote His Book
Akbar Gbaja-Biamila currently works as an NFL Fantasy Live host on the NFL Network. The former defensive end in the NFL was in attendance for the 2019 Harold and Carole Pump Foundation Gala. The Gala is to raise money for cancer research and treatment. Dana Pump and David Pump started the foundation in honor of their father and mother, who both passed away in 2000 and 2012 of cancer. Since their parents’ passings, the Pumps have raised $7 million dollars.
Biamila was a guest on Voice of the Fans with Cameron Buford and was asked What’s the best example of somebody pay it forward that you have seen in 2019?
Biamila replied, “LeBron James helping me out”
“I have only met him a handful of times, but I just came out with a brand new book. I am a first-time author and it is extreme to promote your book and LeBron James took my book and put it on one of his promotions. I did not ask him or pay him for it, but he made me very conscious of helping the generation behind. Bring them into either the sports or entertainment and paying it forward. So, using his platform, which is a massive platform to help me out when it wasn’t prompted or asked.”
This is not the first time LeBron James that has used his massive platform to bring attention to David Griffin’s wife Meredith Hale-Griffin’s business decantU, which according to Forbes “interactive events that celebrate wine and the three dimensions of wellness – mind, body, and spirit.”
James also recently partnered with Walmart as a part of their “Fight Hunger. Spark Change.” campaign. In order to bring awareness and support to individuals suffering from hunger across the United States. Both Walmart and the LeBron James Family Foundation are providing food to families in need.
“Growing up in Akron, the whole city supported my dreams, supported my friends’ dreams. Gave us shelter. Gave us food. We always felt like we had that support,” James said. “Partnering with Walmart is about the commitment to the community. Walmart has done so many great things all over the world, but, it starts in their hometown of Bentonville, Arkansas—the same as me starting in my hometown of Akron, Ohio. We don’t forget where we come from.”
Never forget where you come from.
We’re so excited to welcome @Walmart 🔆 to our family and cannot wait for the real & lasting change in our communities & across the world that is going to come. 💙 #WeAreFamily #IPROMISE pic.twitter.com/r9iVBVA6Ri
— LeBron James Family Foundation (@LJFamFoundation) May 15, 2019
Landon Buford is an accomplished sports and entertainment journalist based in Richardson, Texas, with over a decade of experience covering the NBA, WNBA, NFL, WWE, MLB, and the entertainment industry. Known for delivering high-impact stories and headline-making interviews, Buford has earned a global audience through content that blends insider access with compelling storytelling.
He previously served as director of editorial and brand communications at PlayersTV, where he helped shape the platform’s editorial voice and brand identity. He is also the founder and editor-in-chief of LandonBuford.com—an independent outlet with more than 1.6 million views and syndication from major platforms including Bleacher Report, Sports Illustrated and Yahoo Sports. Buford’s interviews with stars like Gary Payton, Kevin Durant, Mark Cuban and Chris Paul showcase his talent for meaningful, in-depth conversations.
His bylines have appeared in Sports Illustrated, Forbes, Heavy.com, Meta’s Bulletin and One37pm, where he has contributed exclusive interviews, breaking news and cultural insights. At Heavy.com, his work drew more than a million views in just eight months, and at One37pm, it contributed to record-breaking traffic numbers.
His work highlights the intersection of sports, fashion, music, and entrepreneurship—showcasing how athletes and entertainers use their platforms to inspire change, influence trends, and shape culture beyond the game. Landon has interviewed a wide range of figures from the NBA, NFL, and entertainment industries, consistently bringing authentic voices and untold stories to the forefront.
In addition to his journalism, Buford is an entrepreneur and content creator, dedicated to amplifying diverse narratives and driving meaningful conversations across media platforms. His passion for storytelling, culture, and innovation continues to make him a respected voice in the evolving landscape of sports and entertainment media.
