LeBron James Emotional During Cavaliers Tribute

Lakers star reflects on time in Cleveland after video highlights his storied career

Jan. 28, 2026 at 10:23pm

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LeBron James was visibly emotional during a tribute video played for him by the Cleveland Cavaliers during their 129-99 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday night. The four-time NBA MVP was seen tearing up on the bench as the video highlighted his playoff heroics and the Cavaliers' championship banner that he helped bring to the city.

Why it matters

LeBron's return to Cleveland is always an emotional event, as he spent the first 11 years of his NBA career with the Cavaliers, leading them to an NBA championship in 2016. This latest tribute video served as a reminder of his iconic status in Cleveland and the deep connection he still has with the city and its fans.

The details

The tribute video shown during the game included highlights from LeBron's legendary 25-straight-point performance against the Detroit Pistons in the 2007 playoffs, as well as footage of the Cavaliers' championship banner that LeBron helped deliver to the city in 2016. Despite struggling on the court, finishing with just 11 points, LeBron was clearly moved by the moment, reflecting on his time in Cleveland.

  • The tribute video was played during the Cavaliers' 129-99 victory over the Lakers on Wednesday, January 28, 2026.

The players

LeBron James

A four-time NBA champion and four-time MVP, LeBron James spent the first 11 years of his career with the Cleveland Cavaliers, leading them to an NBA title in 2016 before joining the Los Angeles Lakers.

Bronny James

LeBron's son, who also plays for the Lakers, had a highlight dunk late in the game against the Cavaliers.

Gloria James

LeBron's mother, who was in attendance to watch her son and grandson play in the NBA at the same time.

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What they’re saying

“Obviously, with the moment they put up there with the Detroit game and looking up in the rafters and seeing our championship banner, it was a lot of reflecting for sure.”

— LeBron James, NBA Player (usatoday.com)

“My mom got to watch her son and her grandson play in the NBA at the same time.”

— LeBron James, NBA Player (usatoday.com)

What’s next

The Lakers will continue their road trip, facing the Chicago Bulls on Friday, January 30th.

The takeaway

LeBron James' emotional reaction to the Cavaliers' tribute video underscores the deep connection he still has with the city of Cleveland and its fans, even after leaving the team to join the Lakers. This moment serves as a reminder of his iconic status and the lasting impact he had on the city during his time there.