LeBron James
Cleveland Cavaliers star LeBron James, pictured Oct. 30, 2014, reportedly supported teammate Kyrie Irving after his ex-girlfriend Kehlani attempted suicide Monday. Getty Images

While many people have taken the time to send their prayers to rhythm-and-blues singer Kehlani, who attempted suicide Monday, Cleveland Cavaliers power forward LeBron James is lending his support to teammate Kyrie Irving. The point guard was purportedly played by Kehlani when she supposedly reignited her relationship with ex-boyfriend PartyNextDoor, aka PND.

James, 31, is looking out for his teammate. “LeBron and Kyrie have an up-and-down friendship, but LeBron is privately supporting Kyrie because basketball is a mental game,” an insider told Hollywood Life in an exclusive report Tuesday.

James’ support may have more to do with wanting his team to win and less to do with siding with Irving over Kehlani. “He wants to make sure that Kyrie’s mind is right leading into the playoffs,” the insider said. “LeBron doesn’t want anything to derail Cleveland’s chances on winning a championship and something like this could really do that.”

Kehlani
Grammy Award-nominated singer Kehlani apparently attempted suicide after rumors swirled that she cheated on Kyrie Irving with PartyNextDoor. Kehlani is pictured Oct. 2, 2015. Getty Images

James coached Irving, 24, on how to respond to the press. “LeBron really wants to protect Kyrie from all the questions he will hear from the media,” the source said. “They have already had a few private talks, and LeBron is also considering having a private team meeting to make sure everyone is on the same page and giving Kyrie the support he needs.”

Kehlani, 20, attempted suicide Monday after rumors spread she had cheated on Irving with PND. She posted a photograph of herself in the hospital and said she was grateful to be alive. “Today, I wanted to leave this earth. Being completely selfish for once. Never thought I’d get to such a low point,” the Grammy Award-nominated singer wrote in an Instagram post.

Kehlani also denied the infidelity speculation. “No, I’m not a cheater, a thot. I’m a believer in following your heart and not lying to yourself,” she wrote.

Neither Irving nor PDN has issued an official response.

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