LeBron James, Lakers
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LeBron James returned to Cleveland for the first time this season on Jan. 28 as the Lakers fell to the Cavaliers 129-99.
LeBron James made his return to Cleveland for the first time this season. Despite the Los Angeles Lakers falling to the Cleveland Cavaliers 129-119, James was filled with emotion coming back to his home state.
After the game, James received a special surprise as he was greeted by his family. In a video from Paris McGee Jr. of cleveland.com via X, James was seen taking photos with his family and signing jerseys for them. Though the Lakers did not pull out the win, James was filled with joy as he got the opportunity to spend time with his family after the game.
James is someone who values family and his family made sure to come show their support in his return to Cleveland. He also gave his mother a signed jersey that said “To Mama James, Love you with all my heart & more. Thank you for everything and beyond. YOU’RE INCREDIBLE #TheRealMVP.”
LeBron James’ Special Return to Cleveland
In what could have been James’ last time playing in Cleveland, the Cavaliers gave the three-time NBA champion a special tribute video. After watching the video, James got emotional as he reflected on his time with the Cavaliers. He went on to finish the game with 11 points, five assists, and three rebounds.
After the game, James spoke to reporters about the experience his mom had watching the game in the stands.“My mom gets to watch her son and her grandson play in the NBA at the same time… Sh*t… I actually just started to think about how insane that is,” he said. Not too many people get a chance to say they had the opportunity to watch their son and grandson play in the same game in their home state.
James put together a prolific career during his time in Cleveland. He had the spotlight on him since he was a teenager in high school and all eyes were on him when the Cavaliers selected him with the first overall pick in the 2003 NBA Draft. Ever since entering the league at 18, he has not disappointed and has risen to the occasion. There’s no question that the Cavaliers will retire his jersey and the organization might even create a statue in his honor.
Did LeBron James Play His Last Game in Cleveland?
It’s possible that James may have played his last game in Cleveland. While he has not confirmed when he will retire, there’s no surprise that it’s coming soon for the 21-time All-Star. “The question gets asked more and the thought creeps in my mind more at 41 years old of when the end is and where is the finish line for us to hang this thing up,” he said post game. “How much juice I can squeeze out of this orange? I’m in a battle with Father Time and I’m kind of taking it personally.”
It will be a historic moment when James finally decides to hang up his shoes. He’s done a lot for the game and will go down as one of the best to ever play.