LeBron James was visibly emotional during the Los Angeles Lakers' 129-99 defeat to the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Arena, as a tribute video played during the game brought back memories of his time with the team. The NBA legend, who returned to his home state and former team for possibly the last time, struggled to hold back tears as he watched footage of himself scoring 48 points in a double overtime victory against the Philadelphia 76ers in 2007.
James has been speculation about his future in the league, with many believing that this could be his final season. When asked by reporters if he had made a decision on his retirement, James said he hadn't, but acknowledged that the occasion "definitely got to me a little bit." He described being more present than on previous trips to Cleveland, where he has won nine of 12 games.
Despite being the NBA's all-time leading scorer, James only managed 11 points in Wednesday's game. The Lakers have struggled without him at the start of the season due to an injury, but James has been instrumental in their recent resurgence with 28 appearances this season. He signed a one-year contract extension in June and became the first player to feature in 23 NBA seasons when he returned from injury.
For LeBron James, there's no clear end in sight - only the memories of what once was.
James has been speculation about his future in the league, with many believing that this could be his final season. When asked by reporters if he had made a decision on his retirement, James said he hadn't, but acknowledged that the occasion "definitely got to me a little bit." He described being more present than on previous trips to Cleveland, where he has won nine of 12 games.
Despite being the NBA's all-time leading scorer, James only managed 11 points in Wednesday's game. The Lakers have struggled without him at the start of the season due to an injury, but James has been instrumental in their recent resurgence with 28 appearances this season. He signed a one-year contract extension in June and became the first player to feature in 23 NBA seasons when he returned from injury.
For LeBron James, there's no clear end in sight - only the memories of what once was.
It's so sad but at the same time it's like he's trying to relive his past and make new memories 
. I think he's still playing for another year or two, maybe even more! I mean 48 points in a double overtime game is NOT easy to get back from 
. But can you blame him? He's got that emotional connection with the team, especially now since it might be one of his last times here 
. I love how he's being all present and focused though, maybe that's what's keeping him going 
. What do u think tho?! Should he retire already or keep on truckin'? 
he's been through so much on the court already, i feel bad for him having to deal with all these emotions in one game 
it's amazing how much love and respect the cleveland crowd showed him though, 9 wins out of 12 is still a great record 
he's been doing this tribute video thing for years now and it's getting old, but at the same time, you can't deny the guy's feelings... he's played so many games in Cleveland already that it's almost like nostalgia is taking over his mind 
it's like a part of him will always be there. and honestly, who can blame him? the memories must be flooding back, all those wins and losses, triumphs and struggles... 48 points against philly in '07, man that was a moment for the ages 
. I'm glad he got to experience some closure with the tribute video, but 11 points? 
.
. But seriously, this loss must have been tough for him, especially considering how dominant he's usually is on the court 
. The fact that he only managed 11 points doesn't say much about his current form, but more about how much it meant to him being back in Cleveland 
. I think he's still got some magic left in him, but you can never be 100% sure about that 
. All we can do is enjoy watching him play and cherish these moments when he takes the court 
.
. And honestly, that's kinda what makes him so lovable – his passion and dedication are infectious 
. I got a lot of respect for the guy, no matter what 
.
And can you blame him? Nine championships, four MVPs, all-time leading scorer... the list goes on 
Still, I'm curious to know what his future holds. Is this really it for him, or will he somehow find a way to defy logic and keep playing till he's 40+ 
Either way, we'll be watching with bated breath 
I drove across the US with my buddy and we stopped at this tiny diner in the middle of nowhere that served the best pancakes ever 
We ended up talking to a bunch of locals who were all about the history of Route 66... anyway, I digress. So, LeBron's been playing like he's old (he's not) and it got me thinking, have you guys seen those new sneakers they're coming out? I heard they're gonna be super comfy but also look kinda weird 
? anyway back to lebron james lol idk about him retiering but i think he should just play 4 fun 
). anyway, only lebron knows what's in that head of his, but i think he'll play as long as he wants to 
. The fact that he's still playing at an elite level despite being 38 is just insane 
I'm literally shaking thinking about how emotional LeBron got during that game 
- he's too fierce 
!
... 129-99 is a pretty big loss tho 
... i guess we'll just have to wait and see what he decides about retirement 
. He's not just showing up as a celebrity visiting his hometown fans - he's actually engaging with the team and making an effort to win games 
. We all know he's not getting any younger, and there are rumors galore about him possibly calling it quits after this season. But honestly? I think he'll find a way to keep himself in the game for as long as humanly possible