A tweet from NBA Memes has gone viral after showcasing a graphic comparing past and present Eastern Conference champions, with LeBron James dominating the top half. The visual immediately drew reactions for how clearly it illustrates James’s impact during his run in the East.
The tweet reads, “This graphic shows how dominant LeBron has been in the East,” alongside images of each Eastern Conference champion from 2011 to 2025. The top row highlights eight straight appearances by James from 2011 to 2018, split between the Miami Heat and the Cleveland Cavaliers.
James represented the East in every Finals over that span. He did it four times with Miami (2011–2014) and four more with Cleveland (2015–2018). That stretch remains one of the most consistent periods of postseason success by a single player in NBA history.
LeBron James
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James.
© Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
Fans reacted quickly to the post, noting the shift in player variety following James’s move to the Western Conference. The second row of the graphic shows a different player every year since 2019, including Kawhi Leonard, Jimmy Butler, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Jayson Tatum, and Tyrese Haliburton.
The post highlights more than just James’s dominance. It shows how open the conference has become since his departure. Since 2019, no team or player has repeated as Eastern Conference champion. Each year has brought a new leader and often a new storyline.
The tweet sparked debate about whether the East is now more balanced or simply without a clear standout. Some fans praised the competitive variety. Others pointed to the level of control James had during his prime and how that kind of consistency has yet to be replicated.
Regardless of one's opinion, the graphic struck a chord.