LeBron James facts for kids

LeBron Raymone James Sr. (born December 30, 1984) is an American professional basketball player for the Los Angeles Lakers in the National Basketball Association (NBA). He is often called "King James" because he is one of the greatest basketball players of all time. LeBron is the NBA's all-time leading scorer and has won four NBA championships. He has also won three Olympic gold medals with the U.S. national team.

LeBron has many individual awards, including four NBA MVP awards and four NBA Finals MVP awards. He was named Rookie of the Year and has been an NBA All-Star a record 21 times. He is also known for his amazing passing and defense. LeBron is currently the oldest active player in the NBA and holds the record for the most minutes played in league history.

Born and raised in Akron, Ohio, LeBron became famous in high school for his incredible basketball skills. He was chosen by the Cleveland Cavaliers as the very first pick in the 2003 NBA draft. He quickly became one of the league's top players, leading the Cavaliers to their first NBA Finals in 2007. After winning two MVP awards, he joined the Miami Heat in 2010.

With the Heat, LeBron won his first two NBA championships in 2012 and 2013. He then returned to Cleveland in 2014 and led the Cavaliers to their first-ever championship in 2016. In 2018, he signed with the Lakers, winning another title in 2020. In 2023, he became the NBA's all-time leading scorer. In 2024, he and his son Bronny made history as the first father-son teammates in the NBA.

Off the court, LeBron is very successful with many endorsement deals. He is the first NBA player to earn over $1 billion while still playing. He has appeared in books, documentaries, and movies like Space Jam: A New Legacy. LeBron is also a part-owner of Liverpool F.C. and leads the LeBron James Family Foundation, which has opened a school and other community centers in Akron.

Quick facts for kids
LeBron James

James with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2023
No. 23 – Los Angeles Lakers
Small forward / power forward
Personal information
Born	(1984-12-30) December 30, 1984 (age 40) Akron, Ohio, U.S.
High school	St. Vincent–St. Mary (Akron, Ohio)
Listed height	6 ft 9 in (2.06 m)
Listed weight	250 lb (113 kg)
Career information
NBA Draft	2003 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
Selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers
Pro career	2003–present
League	NBA
Career history
2003–2010	Cleveland Cavaliers
2010–2014	Miami Heat
2014–2018	Cleveland Cavaliers
2018–present	Los Angeles Lakers
Career highlights and awards
4× NBA champion (2012, 2013, 2016, 2020) 4× NBA Finals MVP (2012, 2013, 2016, 2020) 4× NBA Most Valuable Player (2009, 2010, 2012, 2013) 21× NBA All-Star (2005–2025) 3× NBA All-Star Game MVP (2006, 2008, 2018) 13× All-NBA First Team (2006, 2008–2018, 2020) 4× All-NBA Second Team (2005, 2007, 2021, 2025) 4× All-NBA Third Team (2019, 2022–2024) 5× NBA All-Defensive First Team (2009–2013) NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2014) NBA Rookie of the Year (2004) NBA All-Rookie First Team (2004) NBA scoring champion (2008) NBA assists leader (2020) NBA Cup champion (2023) NBA Cup MVP (2023) NBA 75th Anniversary Team Olympics MVP (2024) AP Male Athlete of the Decade (2010s) 4× AP Male Athlete of the Year (2013, 2016, 2018, 2020) 3× Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year (2012, 2016, 2020) USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year (2012) 2× National high school player of the year (2002, 2003) McDonald's All-American Game MVP (2003) 2× First-team Parade All-American (2002, 2003) Second-team Parade All-American (2001) 3× Ohio Mr. Basketball (2001–2003)
Medals Men's basketball Representing the  United States Olympic Games Gold 2008 Beijing Team Gold 2012 London Team Gold 2024 Paris Team Bronze 2004 Athens Team FIBA World Championship Bronze 2006 Japan FIBA Americas Championship Gold 2007 Las Vegas

Early Life and Basketball Beginnings

LeBron Raymone James was born on December 30, 1984, in Akron, Ohio. His mother, Gloria Marie James, was 16 when he was born. Life was tough for them, and they moved around a lot. To give LeBron a more stable home, his mother let him live with the family of Frank Walker. Frank was a local youth football coach who introduced LeBron to basketball when he was nine years old.

LeBron started playing organized basketball in fifth grade. He played for the Northeast Ohio Shooting Stars, an Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) team. The team, led by LeBron and his friends Sian Cotton, Dru Joyce III, and Willie McGee, was very successful. They called themselves the "Fab Four" and promised to go to high school together. They chose to attend St. Vincent–St. Mary High School, a private Catholic school.

High School Basketball Star

As a freshman, LeBron was already 6 feet 2 inches tall. He averaged 18 points and 6.2 rebounds per game for the St. Vincent–St. Mary varsity basketball team. The team had a perfect 27–0 record and won the state title. This made them the only boys' high school team in Ohio to finish a season undefeated.

In his sophomore year, LeBron averaged 25.3 points and 7.4 rebounds. He also had 5.5 assists and 3.7 steals per game. Many people wanted to see him play, so some home games were held at the University of Akron's large arena. The team finished 26–1 and won another state championship. LeBron was named Ohio Mr. Basketball and was the first sophomore to be selected for the USA Today All-USA First Team.

Before his junior year, LeBron grew to 6 feet 7 inches. He was featured in Slam magazine and appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated. He was the first high school basketball player below senior year to do so. He averaged 28 points, 8.9 rebounds, 6 assists, and 3 steals. He was again named Ohio Mr. Basketball and Gatorade National Player of the Year.

In his senior year, LeBron and his team traveled across the country to play other top teams. One game was even shown on national TV. LeBron averaged 30.4 points, 9.7 rebounds, 4.9 assists, and 2.9 steals. He won Ohio Mr. Basketball and Gatorade National Player of the Year for the third and second time, respectively. He played in several high school all-star games, which meant he would go straight to the NBA.

During his senior year, LeBron faced some minor issues regarding gifts he received. The Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) investigated, and he was briefly suspended. However, he was allowed to play the rest of the season. St. Vincent–St. Mary won their third state title in four years.

High School Football

LeBron also played football as a wide receiver for his high school team. He was so good that some college programs, like Notre Dame, wanted him to play for them. He was named first-team all-state as a sophomore. Some sports experts even thought he could have played in the National Football League (NFL).

Professional Basketball Career

Cleveland Cavaliers (2003–2010)

Rookie of the Year

James, pictured here in 2007, joined Oscar Robertson and Michael Jordan as the only players to average better than 20 points, five rebounds and five assists per game as rookies during his 2003–04 season.

The Cleveland Cavaliers, LeBron's hometown team, chose him as the first overall pick in the 2003 NBA draft. He picked jersey number 23 to honor Michael Jordan. In his first game, LeBron scored 25 points, a record for a player coming straight from high school. He became the first Cavalier to win the NBA Rookie of the Year Award. He averaged 20.9 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.9 assists, becoming only the third player in NBA history to reach those numbers as a rookie.

Becoming a Superstar

In the 2004–2005 season, LeBron was chosen for his first NBA All-Star Game. He scored 56 points against the Toronto Raptors, setting a new record for Cleveland. He was named to his first All-NBA Team.

James picks up his dribble against Caron Butler of the Washington Wizards in November 2006.

At the 2006 NBA All-Star Game, LeBron led the Eastern Conference to victory and was named the NBA All-Star Game Most Valuable Player. He finished second in the overall NBA Most Valuable Player Award voting. Under his leadership, the Cavaliers made the playoffs for the first time since 1998. In his first playoff game, LeBron recorded a triple-double (double digits in points, rebounds, and assists). He also made two game-winning shots in that series.

James engages in his pre-game ritual of tossing crushed chalk into the air in March 2008.

In the 2006–2007 season, LeBron led the Cavaliers to 50 wins. They reached the Eastern Conference Finals against the Detroit Pistons. In Game 5, he scored 48 points, including 29 of Cleveland's last 30 points. This performance is considered one of the greatest in playoff history. The Cavaliers won the series and reached their first-ever NBA Finals. They faced the San Antonio Spurs and lost in four games.

In the 2007–2008 season, LeBron was named All-Star Game MVP for the second time. He also became the Cavaliers' all-time leading scorer. He led the league with 30 points per game, earning his first scoring title. The Cavaliers were eliminated by the Boston Celtics in seven games in the playoffs.

MVP Seasons

In the 2008–2009 season, LeBron was named to his first NBA All-Defensive Team. He also became only the fourth player in NBA history to lead his team in points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks in one season. Cleveland set a franchise record with 66 wins. LeBron became the first Cavalier to win the NBA Most Valuable Player Award.

In the playoffs, Cleveland swept two teams before facing the Orlando Magic in the Eastern Conference Finals. LeBron scored 49 points in Game 1 and hit a game-winner in Game 2. However, the Cavaliers lost the series in six games.

In the 2009–2010 season, LeBron played as a point guard due to injuries on his team. Cleveland finished with the best record in the league for the second year in a row. LeBron averaged 29.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 8.6 assists, winning another MVP Award. In the playoffs, the Cavaliers were eliminated by the Boston Celtics in the second round.

Miami Heat (2010–2014)

The Decision and New Team

James with the Cavaliers in November 2009. He finished his first stint with the Cavaliers averaging 27.8 points, 7.0 rebounds, 7.0 assists, and 1.7 steals per game.

On July 8, 2010, LeBron announced on a live TV special called The Decision that he would sign with the Miami Heat. He joined fellow stars Chris Bosh and Dwyane Wade, forming a "Big Three." LeBron wanted to join them to have a better chance at winning an NBA championship.

His decision was met with strong reactions from fans and sports experts. Many were upset, especially in Cleveland. Some fans even burned his jersey. However, some people defended his choice, saying the Cavaliers had not built a strong enough team around him. LeBron later said he regretted how The Decision was handled.

First Championships

James goes in for a slam dunk as a member of the Heat, as John Wall of the Wizards looks on in March 2011.

In the 2010–11 season, LeBron and the Heat faced a lot of criticism. They struggled at first but eventually improved. LeBron scored 38 points in his first game back in Cleveland, leading Miami to a win despite being booed. The Heat reached the NBA Finals but lost to the Dallas Mavericks. LeBron received much of the blame for the loss.

The 2011–2012 season was shorter due to a lockout. LeBron worked on improving his game and became more joyful on the court. He was named MVP for the third time, averaging 27.1 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 6.2 assists.

James stands at midcourt during a dead ball on January 16, 2013. On that night, he became the youngest player in NBA history to score 20,000 career points.

In the playoffs, Miami faced the Indiana Pacers and then the Boston Celtics. LeBron had a "career-defining performance" in Game 6 against the Celtics, scoring 45 points and 15 rebounds to avoid elimination. The Heat advanced to the Finals and defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder. LeBron won his first NBA championship and was named Finals MVP.

In the 2012–13 season, the Heat had a 27-game winning streak, the third longest in NBA history. LeBron was named MVP for the fourth time, almost unanimously. In the playoffs, the Heat reached the Finals again, facing the San Antonio Spurs. LeBron led the Heat to a comeback victory in Game 6 and a win in Game 7, securing his second straight championship. He was named Finals MVP again.

Final Season in Miami

In the 2013–14 season, LeBron scored a career-high and franchise-record 61 points against the Charlotte Bobcats. He averaged 27.1 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 6.4 assists. The Heat reached their fourth consecutive Finals, but lost to the San Antonio Spurs in five games.

Return to Cleveland (2014–2018)

On July 11, 2014, LeBron announced he would return to the Cleveland Cavaliers. This news was very well received by fans. The Cavaliers then acquired Kevin Love and already had Kyrie Irving, forming a new "Big Three." LeBron switched back to jersey number 23.

Ending Cleveland's Championship Drought

James takes a shot in November 2014; later that season, James reached several passing milestones, including becoming the Cavaliers' all-time assists leader.

In the 2014–2015 season, LeBron missed some games due to injury, a rare occurrence for him. In the playoffs, he led the Cavaliers to the NBA Finals, making it his fifth consecutive Finals appearance. With Irving and Love injured, LeBron had to take on more responsibility. The Cavaliers lost to the Golden State Warriors in six games, but LeBron's performance was outstanding.

In the 2015–16 season, Cleveland finished with the best record in the East. In the playoffs, the Cavaliers reached the NBA Finals again, facing the Golden State Warriors, who had a record-setting 73 wins.

Cleveland fell behind 3–1 in the series. LeBron responded with two straight 41-point games to help the Cavaliers win Games 5 and 6. In Game 7, he recorded a triple-double and made a famous play known as "The Block." Cleveland won the championship, ending the city's 52-year professional sports title drought. They became the first team in NBA history to come back from a 3–1 deficit in the Finals. LeBron was unanimously named Finals MVP.

Second Stint Ends

The 2016–17 season was challenging for the Cavaliers. LeBron averaged 26.4 points and career highs in rebounds (8.6) and assists (8.7). In the playoffs, he surpassed Michael Jordan as the league's all-time postseason scoring leader. The Cavaliers reached the NBA Finals for the third straight time, again facing the Golden State Warriors. LeBron became the first player to average a triple-double in the Finals, but Cleveland lost in five games.

James protects the ball from Kyrie Irving in October 2017. The two were teammates in Cleveland for three seasons.

Before the 2017–18 season, Kyrie Irving was traded from the Cavaliers. LeBron continued to achieve historical milestones, including setting an NBA record with 867 straight games scoring in double digits. He won his third All-Star Game MVP Award.

In the playoffs, LeBron led the Cavaliers to another Finals rematch with the Golden State Warriors. He had many memorable moments, including game-winning shots. In Game 1 of the NBA Finals, LeBron scored a playoff career-high 51 points, but Cleveland lost the game and the series in four games.

Los Angeles Lakers (2018–Present)

Joining the Lakers

On July 1, 2018, LeBron became a free agent and signed a four-year contract with the Los Angeles Lakers. Many people wondered if Los Angeles was the best place for him. The Lakers hoped LeBron would immediately make them a championship team.

In the 2018–19 season, the Lakers struggled at first. LeBron had some strong performances, including a season-high 51 points against the Miami Heat. However, he suffered a groin injury, his first major injury. He missed 17 games, and the Lakers missed the playoffs for the first time in LeBron's career since 2005.

Fourth NBA Championship

During the offseason, the Lakers hired Frank Vogel as coach and traded for superstar Anthony Davis. LeBron changed his playing style, becoming a full-time point guard. The Lakers started the 2019–20 season with a great 17–2 record. On January 25, LeBron passed Kobe Bryant for third on the all-time regular season scoring list.

The season was paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic. When it resumed in the "NBA Bubble," LeBron finished as the league leader in assists for the first time in his career. He earned a record 16th All-NBA Team selection.

The Lakers entered the playoffs as the top seed. They advanced to the NBA Finals with only three losses. In the Finals, LeBron and the Lakers faced his former team, the Miami Heat. The Lakers won the series in six games, earning LeBron his fourth NBA championship and fourth Finals MVP award. He became the first player to win Finals MVP with three different teams.

Milestones and Injuries

Following the championship, LeBron signed an extension with the Lakers. The 2020–2021 season was shorter due to the pandemic. On December 31, LeBron became the first player in NBA history to score 10 points or more in 1,000 consecutive games. In February 2021, he became the third player in NBA history to reach 35,000 career points. He missed 20 games due to an ankle injury, his longest absence ever.

James at the 2022 NBA All-Star Game

The Lakers finished as the No. 7 seed and faced the Golden State Warriors in the play-in tournament. LeBron hit a game-winning three-pointer to secure the win. In the first round of the playoffs, the Lakers lost to the Phoenix Suns in six games. This was the first time LeBron lost in the first round of the playoffs.

For the 2021–22 season, LeBron switched his jersey back to No. 6. He continued to set records, becoming the only player in NBA history to record at least 10,000 points, 10,000 rebounds, and 10,000 assists. He also passed Karl Malone for second on the all-time regular season scoring list. At the 2022 NBA All-Star Game in Cleveland, LeBron was celebrated as part of the NBA 75th Anniversary Team. He led his team to victory, hitting the game-winning shot.

James posterizing former Cleveland teammate Kevin Love in a game against the Cavaliers on March 21, 2022

In March 2022, LeBron had two 50-point games, his career-high with the Lakers. He became the oldest player to have multiple 50-point games in a season. Due to an ankle injury, he missed the end of the season. The Lakers missed the playoffs for the fourth time in his career.

All-Time Scoring Record

James in 2023

On August 18, 2022, LeBron signed a contract extension with the Lakers, making him the highest-paid player in NBA history. On February 7, 2023, LeBron passed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to become the all-time leading scorer in NBA history. The game was stopped for a special ceremony where Abdul-Jabbar gave LeBron the game ball.

LeBron suffered a foot injury in February 2023 and missed 13 games. He returned in March, coming off the bench for only the second time in his career. The Lakers made a strong push at the end of the 2022–23 season and reached the playoffs. In the first round, LeBron had a playoff career-high 20 rebounds in a victory against the Memphis Grizzlies. The Lakers reached the Western Conference Finals but were swept by the Denver Nuggets.

NBA Cup MVP and 40,000 Points

James in 2023

Entering the 2023–24 season, LeBron was the oldest player in the league. He switched his jersey back to No. 23 to honor Bill Russell. In November 2023, he became the first player in NBA history to reach 39,000 career points. He also became the player with the most minutes played in NBA history, passing Abdul-Jabbar. On December 9, LeBron and the Lakers won the first-ever NBA In-Season Tournament, and LeBron was named Tournament MVP.

On January 25, 2024, LeBron was named an All-Star starter for the 20th time, breaking Abdul-Jabbar's record. On March 2, 2024, LeBron became the first player in NBA history to reach 40,000 career points. He also passed Oscar Schmidt to become the world's all-time scoring leader in basketball history. LeBron finished his 21st season averaging 25.7 points, 8.3 assists, and 7.3 rebounds. The Lakers made the playoffs but lost in five games to the Denver Nuggets.

First Father-Son Duo

On July 6, 2024, LeBron re-signed with the Lakers. Two weeks earlier, his son Bronny was drafted by the Lakers. This made them the first father-son duo in NBA history to play in the NBA. On October 22, 2024, LeBron and Bronny played together in an NBA game for the first time. LeBron also tied Vince Carter for the record for the most NBA seasons played.

On November 13, 2024, at 39 years old, LeBron broke his own record for the oldest player to record a triple-double in three consecutive games. He then extended that to four consecutive triple-doubles. On December 1, he reached 15,000 career field goals, joining Abdul-Jabbar as the only players to do so. On December 19, he passed Abdul-Jabbar for the most career regular season minutes played.

On January 3, 2025, LeBron surpassed Michael Jordan for the most 30-point games in NBA history. On February 6, 2025, he scored a season-high 42 points, becoming the oldest player to score 40+ points in a game. He was selected for his 21st NBA All-Star Game but missed it due to injury. On March 4, 2025, LeBron surpassed 50,000 career points across the regular season and playoffs. The Lakers were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs in April 2025.

National Team Career

James attempting a shot over China's Yao Ming at the 2008 Summer Olympics

LeBron first played for the U.S. national team at the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens, Greece. The team won a bronze medal, which was a disappointment as they usually won gold. LeBron felt he didn't get enough playing time.

At the 2006 FIBA World Championship in Japan, LeBron had a bigger role, and the team won another bronze medal. Before the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, LeBron was asked to improve his attitude, and he did. The team won gold at the 2007 FIBA Americas Championship, qualifying for the Olympics. At the 2008 Olympics, Team USA went undefeated and won their first gold medal since 2000.

James attempting a dunk at the 2012 Summer Olympics

LeBron rejoined Team USA for the 2012 Summer Olympics in London. He became the team's leader. He recorded the first triple-double in U.S. Olympic basketball history against Australia. Team USA won their second straight gold medal, defeating Spain. LeBron became the all-time leading scorer in U.S. men's basketball history. He also became one of only two players (with Michael Jordan) to win an NBA MVP, NBA championship, NBA Finals MVP, and Olympic gold medal in the same year.

After a 12-year break, LeBron rejoined the national team for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris as Team Captain. He was chosen as one of the two flag-bearers for the opening ceremony, a first for a male basketball player. LeBron led the team in rebounds and assists. He recorded his second Olympic triple-double in the semi-final against Serbia. Team USA won their fifth straight gold medal, defeating France. LeBron was named the FIBA Men's Olympics MVP and became the third male basketball player to win three Olympic gold medals.

Player Profile

LeBron is 6 feet 9 inches tall and weighs 250 pounds. He mostly plays small forward and power forward, but he can play any position. His athletic and versatile playing style has led to comparisons with basketball legends like Oscar Robertson, Magic Johnson, and Michael Jordan.

Offense

LeBron has always been a great scorer. He holds many "youngest to" records, like being the youngest player to score 30,000 career points. Early in his career, he was known for driving to the basket and finishing strong. He was very fast and powerful, making it hard for defenders to stop him.

Over time, LeBron improved his jump shot and post-up game. He also learned to play without the ball, making him even more efficient. He is known for his amazing passing ability, often ranked among the greatest passers ever. He uses his size and vision to create easy scoring chances for his teammates.

Defense

LeBron has become a strong defensive player. He is known for his "chase-down blocks," where he runs from behind to block an opponent's shot. In Miami, he became a versatile defender, guarding all five positions. From 2012 to 2016, he was considered one of the top defenders in the NBA.

While his defensive effort sometimes varied during the regular season, LeBron is famous for stepping up his defense in the playoffs. This is often called "Playoff LeBron."

Legacy and Impact

James with the Cavaliers in 2017. NBA analyst Brian Windhorst, who spent his career covering James, recounted: "No one has ever had as much hype as James has had to live up to, and James has delivered on every last drop."

LeBron entered the NBA with huge expectations and has lived up to them. He has been named to 21 All-NBA Teams, a record. His four MVP awards are matched by only a few other legends. He has also won four Finals MVP Awards, the second-most all-time.

LeBron's career longevity and performance have consistently placed him among the best basketball players in history. He is often compared to Michael Jordan in debates about the greatest player of all time. LeBron has said his goal is to surpass Jordan.

LeBron has also greatly influenced player power in the NBA. His willingness to change teams during free agency showed other players they could control their careers. Many players believe he opened doors for athletes to have more say in their destiny.

In 2024, LeBron made history by playing with his son Bronny on the Lakers, becoming the first father-son duo in NBA history.

Personal Life

LeBron married his high school sweetheart, Savannah James, on September 14, 2013. They have two sons, Bronny and Bryce, and a daughter, Zhuri. Bronny is also a talented basketball player. LeBron owns several homes, including a custom-built mansion in Akron, Ohio, and multiple homes in Los Angeles.

LeBron's close friends in the NBA include Carmelo Anthony, Chris Paul, and Dwyane Wade. They are sometimes called the "banana boat crew." LeBron once saved Carmelo Anthony from a strong current while they were on a boat trip.

LeBron is known for investing heavily in his health and fitness. He reportedly spends a lot of money on personal chefs, trainers, and physical therapy to stay in top shape.

Public Image and Business

LeBron is widely considered the "face of the NBA." His opinions hold significant influence within the league. He was elected the first vice president of the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA).

Forbes reported in May 2023 that LeBron became the first active NBA player to become a billionaire. He has many endorsement deals with major companies like Nike, Coca-Cola, and McDonald's. In 2011, he gained a minority stake in the English football club Liverpool F.C..

Memorabilia related to LeBron is highly valuable. His rookie cards are among the most expensive basketball cards ever sold. In 2020, his All-Star Game jersey sold for $630,000, a record for a modern-day sports jersey.

In March 2008, LeBron became the first black man to appear on the cover of Vogue magazine. In 2025, Mattel announced that LeBron would be honored with his own Ken doll.

Activism and Philanthropy

Giving Back to the Community

James, First Lady Michelle Obama, and Dwyane Wade tape a public service announcement in January 2014.

LeBron has strong ties to his hometown of Akron, Ohio, where his charity, the LeBron James Family Foundation (LJFF), is based. Since 2005, the foundation has held an annual bike-a-thon to raise money for various causes. In 2015, he partnered with the University of Akron to provide college scholarships for children. In 2017, he received an award from the NBA for his community service.

In 2017, the Akron School Board approved the I Promise School, a public elementary school created with the LJFF. It helps struggling students stay in school. The school opened in July 2018, and LeBron called it his most important professional accomplishment. Other initiatives in Akron include the I Promise Institute, I Promise Village (housing), House Three-Thirty (community center), and I Promise Health Quarters (medical center).

LeBron also supports other non-profit organizations. In 2016, he donated $2.5 million to the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture for an exhibit on Muhammad Ali.

Speaking Out

James with California governor Gavin Newsom on The Shop, when Newsom signed the Fair Pay to Play Act, in 2019.

Throughout his career, LeBron has spoken out on important social issues. He feels it's his duty to use his platform to create positive change. He has commented on topics like the killing of Trayvon Martin, racist comments by a former NBA owner, and the U.S. national anthem kneeling protests.

In August 2020, LeBron and his Lakers teammates, along with other NBA teams, boycotted playoff games to protest the shooting of Jacob Blake. Former president Barack Obama reportedly advised them to continue playing the season.

LeBron has also been involved in politics. In 2008, he supported Barack Obama's presidential campaign. In 2016, he endorsed and campaigned for Hillary Clinton. In 2020, he announced his support for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. He has encouraged the African-American community to vote. In October 2024, he announced his support for the Kamala Harris 2024 presidential campaign.

Media and Business Ventures

LeBron's business interests go beyond basketball. He and his business partner Maverick Carter own a production company called SpringHill Entertainment. They have produced movies like More Than a Game and Space Jam: A New Legacy. They also produce TV shows like The Wall and The Shop.

In 2012, LeBron invested in a fast-casual pizza chain called Blaze Pizza. His investment grew significantly, and he became a spokesman for the company. In 2020, he became an investor in a tequila and mezcal company. He also joined Fenway Sports Group as a partner, making him a part-owner of the Boston Red Sox and Liverpool F.C..

LeBron has expressed interest in owning an NBA team after he finishes playing, possibly in Las Vegas, Nevada. He is also a part-owner of the Pittsburgh Penguins hockey team. In March 2024, LeBron and JJ Redick launched a podcast called Mind the Game to discuss basketball.

NBA Career Statistics

Regular season

Year	Team	GP	GS	MPG	FG%	3P%	FT%	RPG	APG	SPG	BPG	PPG
2003–04	Cleveland	79	79	39.5	.417	.290	.754	5.5	5.9	1.6	.7	20.9
2004–05	Cleveland	80	80	42.3*	.472	.351	.750	7.4	7.2	2.2	.7	27.2
2005–06	Cleveland	79	79	42.5	.480	.335	.738	7.0	6.6	1.6	.8	31.4
2006–07	Cleveland	78	78	40.9	.476	.319	.698	6.7	6.0	1.6	.7	27.3
2007–08	Cleveland	75	74	40.4	.484	.315	.712	7.9	7.2	1.8	1.1	30.0*
2008–09	Cleveland	81	81	37.7	.489	.344	.780	7.6	7.2	1.7	1.1	28.4
2009–10	Cleveland	76	76	39.0	.503	.333	.767	7.3	8.6	1.6	1.0	29.7
2010–11	Miami	79	79	38.8	.510	.330	.759	7.5	7.0	1.6	.6	26.7
2011–12†	Miami	62	62	37.5	.531	.362	.771	7.9	6.2	1.9	.8	27.1
2012–13†	Miami	76	76	37.9	.565	.406	.753	8.0	7.3	1.7	.9	26.8
2013–14	Miami	77	77	37.7	.567	.379	.750	6.9	6.4	1.6	.3	27.1
2014–15	Cleveland	69	69	36.1	.488	.354	.710	6.0	7.4	1.6	.7	25.3
2015–16†	Cleveland	76	76	35.6	.520	.309	.731	7.4	6.8	1.4	.6	25.3
2016–17	Cleveland	74	74	37.8*	.548	.363	.674	8.6	8.7	1.2	.6	26.4
2017–18	Cleveland	82*	82*	36.9*	.542	.367	.731	8.6	9.1	1.4	.9	27.5
2018–19	L.A. Lakers	55	55	35.2	.510	.339	.665	8.5	8.3	1.3	.6	27.4
2019–20†	L.A. Lakers	67	67	34.6	.493	.348	.693	7.8	10.2*	1.2	.5	25.3
2020–21	L.A. Lakers	45	45	33.4	.513	.365	.698	7.7	7.8	1.1	.6	25.0
2021–22	L.A. Lakers	56	56	37.2	.524	.359	.756	8.2	6.2	1.3	1.1	30.3
2022–23	L.A. Lakers	55	54	35.5	.500	.321	.768	8.3	6.8	.9	.6	28.9
2023–24	L.A. Lakers	71	71	35.3	.540	.410	.750	7.3	8.3	1.3	.5	25.7
2024–25	L.A. Lakers	70	70	34.9	.513	.376	.782	7.8	8.2	1.0	.6	24.4
Career		1,562	1,560	37.8	.506	.349	.737	7.5	7.4	1.5	.7	27.0
All-Star		20	20	26.8	.513	.297	.725	5.7	5.7	1.1	.4	21.7

Playoffs

Year	Team	GP	GS	MPG	FG%	3P%	FT%	RPG	APG	SPG	BPG	PPG
2006	Cleveland	13	13	46.5	.476	.333	.737	8.1	5.8	1.4	.7	30.8
2007	Cleveland	20*	20*	44.6	.416	.280	.755	8.1	8.0	1.7	.5	25.1
2008	Cleveland	13	13	42.5	.411	.257	.731	7.8	7.6	1.8	1.3	28.2
2009	Cleveland	14	14	41.4	.510	.333	.749	9.1	7.3	1.6	.9	35.3
2010	Cleveland	11	11	41.8	.502	.400	.733	9.3	7.6	1.7	1.8	29.1
2011	Miami	21*	21*	43.9	.466	.353	.763	8.4	5.9	1.7	1.2	23.7
2012†	Miami	23*	23*	42.8	.500	.259	.739	9.7	5.6	1.9	.7	30.3
2013†	Miami	23*	23*	41.8	.491	.375	.777	8.4	6.6	1.8	.8	25.9
2014	Miami	20	20	38.2	.565	.407	.806	7.1	4.8	1.9	.6	27.4
2015	Cleveland	20	20	42.2	.417	.227	.731	11.3	8.5	1.7	1.1	30.1
2016†	Cleveland	21	21	39.1	.525	.340	.661	9.5	7.6	2.3	1.3	26.3
2017	Cleveland	18*	18*	41.3	.565	.411	.698	9.1	7.8	1.9	1.3	32.8
2018	Cleveland	22*	22*	41.9	.539	.342	.746	9.1	9.0	1.4	1.0	34.0
2020†	L.A. Lakers	21*	21*	36.3	.560	.370	.720	10.8	8.8	1.2	.9	27.6
2021	L.A. Lakers	6	6	37.3	.474	.375	.609	7.2	8.0	1.5	.3	23.3
2023	L.A. Lakers	16	16	38.7	.498	.264	.761	9.9	6.5	1.1	1.1	24.5
2024	L.A. Lakers	5	5	40.8	.566	.385	.739	6.8	8.8	2.4	1.0	27.8
2025	L.A. Lakers	5	5	40.8	.489	.357	.775	9.0	5.6	2.0	1.8	25.4
Career		292	292	41.3	.496	.333	.741	9.0	7.2	1.7	1.0	28.4

Awards and Honors

James (center) celebrates during the Heat's 2012 championship parade.

LeBron James at the 2022 NBA All-Star Game

NBA

• 4× NBA champion: 2012, 2013, 2016, 2020
• 4× NBA Finals Most Valuable Player: 2012, 2013, 2016, 2020
• 4× NBA Most Valuable Player: 2009, 2010, 2012, 2013
• 21× NBA All-Star: 2005–2025
• 3× NBA All-Star Game MVP: 2006, 2008, 2018
• 21× All-NBA selection:
  • 13× First team: 2005, 2007–2017, 2020
  • 4× Second team: 2004, 2006, 2021, 2025
  • 4× Third team: 2018, 2022, 2023, 2024
• 6× NBA All-Defensive selection:
  • 5× First Team: 2009–2013
  • Second Team: 2014
• NBA Rookie of the Year: 2004
• NBA All-Rookie First Team: 2004
• NBA scoring leader: 2008
• NBA assists leader: 2020
• 3× NBA minutes leader: 2006, 2017, 2018
• J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award: 2017
• NBA 75th Anniversary Team
• NBA Cup winner: 2023
• NBA Cup Most Valuable Player: 2023

USA Basketball

• 3× Olympic Gold Medal winner: 2008, 2012, 2024
• 2004 Olympic Bronze Medal winner
• FIBA Men's Olympics Most Valuable Player: 2024
• FIBA Men's Olympics All-Star Five: 2024
• 2006 FIBA World Championship Bronze Medal winner
• 2007 FIBA Americas Championship Gold Medal winner
• 2012 USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year
• Commemorative banner in Miami's American Airlines Arena (for his 2012 gold medal won as a member of the Miami Heat)

High school

• 2003 National Champion
• 3× OHSAA Champion: 2000, 2001, 2003
• 2003 Naismith Prep Player of the Year
• 2× Mr. Basketball USA: 2002, 2003
• 2× Gatorade National Player of the Year 2002, 2003
• 2× USA Today High School Player of the Year 2002, 2003
• 3× Ohio Mr. Basketball: 2001, 2002, 2003
• 3× USA Today All-USA First Team: 2001, 2002, 2003
• 2× PARADE High School Player of the Year: 2002, 2003
• 2003 McDonald's National Player of the Year
• 2003 McDonald's High School All-American
• 2003 McDonald's All-American Game MVP
• 2003 EA Sports Roundball Classic MVP
• 2003 Jordan Brand Classic MVP
• No. 23 retired by St. Vincent–St. Mary
• St. Vincent–St. Mary home basketball court named The LeBron James Arena

Media

• AP Athlete of the Decade (2010s)
• 4× AP Athlete of the Year (2013, 2016, 2018, 2020)
• 3× Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year (2012, 2016, 2020)
• 2012 Sporting News Athlete of the Year
• 3× Sporting News NBA MVP (2006, 2009, 2010)
• 2004 Sporting News Rookie of the Year
• Sports Illustrated NBA All-Decade First Team (2000s)
• 2× Hickok Belt winner: 2012, 2013
• 20× ESPY Award winner in various categories (16 individually, four as part of a team)
• 9× BET Sportsman of the Year Award winner
• 2020 Time Athlete of the Year
• Co-flag bearer for the United States at the 2024 Summer Olympics' opening ceremony with Coco Gauff

NAACP Image Awards

• 2017 Jackie Robinson Award
• 2021 President's Award

Sports Emmy Awards

• 2020 Outstanding Long Sports Documentary (as executive producer of What's My Name? – Muhammed Ali Part 1)
• 2021 Outstanding Edited Sports Series (as executive producer of The Shop: Uninterrupted)
• 2023 Outstanding Long Documentary (as executive producer of The Redeem Team)

Halls of Fame

• Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame – Class of 2025 as a member of the 2008 United States men's Olympic basketball team ("Redeem Team")
• St. Vincent–St. Mary Hall of Fame – Class of 2011

Fashion

• First black man to appear on the cover of Vogue, posing with supermodel Gisele Bündchen on the March 2008 edition
• Honorary chair of the 2025 Met Gala in Manhattan

State/Local

• 6× Cleveland Sports Awards Professional Athlete of the Year: 2004, 2005, 2006, 2009, 2015, 2016
• South Main Street in downtown Akron renamed King James Way
• Six-story commemorative banner in downtown Akron
• Featured on Space Jam inspired mural in Akron near his alma mater (St. Vincent St. Mary) and his I Promise school
• Featured on "Cleveland is the Reason" mural in downtown Cleveland (with other notable Cleveland area figures)
• Honorary lockers at Ohio State's football and basketball facilities
• LeBron James Home Court Museum in Akron, Ohio

Filmography

Film

Television

Fun Facts About LeBron James

• LeBron loves cartoons! His favorites are "Tom & Jerry" and "Spongebob Squarepants".
• Earth Science was his favorite subject in school.
• His first slam dunk in a game was in 8th grade during a teachers vs. students basketball game.
• Michael Jordan noticed LeBron when he was in high school and invited him to play in basketball games in Chicago.
• LeBron's second son, Bryce Maximus, was born during his first trip to the NBA Finals in 2007.
• LeBron James and Michael Jordan are the only players to win a regular season MVP, NBA Finals MVP, and an Olympic gold medal in the same year.
• LeBron writes and eats with his left hand, but he shoots a basketball with his right hand.

Famous Quotes from LeBron James

• “I like criticism. It makes you strong.”
• “You can’t be afraid to fail. It’s the only way you succeed. You’re not gonna succeed all the time and I know that.”
• "I treated it like every day was my last day with a basketball.”
• "Commitment is a big part of what I am and what I believe. How committed are you to winning?"

Images for kids

• 

  The April 2008 Vogue cover with James and Gisele Bündchen.

• 

  James meets with President George W. Bush in 2008.

• 

  James meets with President Barack Obama in 2012.

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  James drives to the basket in March 2008.

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  James defending against Joe Harris in February 2018.

See also

In Spanish: LeBron James para niños