History of LeBron James in Timeline
LeBron James, nicknamed "King James", is an American professional basketball player for the Los Angeles Lakers. He holds the distinction of being the NBA's all-time leading scorer. James has won four NBA championships across 10 NBA Finals appearances, including eight consecutive appearances from 2011 to 2018. He secured the inaugural NBA Cup in 2023 with the Lakers. Furthermore, he has earned three Olympic gold medals as part of the U.S. national team, solidifying his status as one of the sport's most accomplished players.
5 hours ago : LeBron James Criticizes NBA Ring Culture, Sparking Debate with Stephen A. Smith.
LeBron James expressed his frustration with the NBA's emphasis on championship rings. Stephen A. Smith responded, linking James's billionaire status to his ring count, initiating a debate about legacy.
1976: Abdul-Jabbar
On January 27, 2024, James became the first player in Lakers franchise history since Abdul-Jabbar in 1976 to put up at least 30 points, 20 rebounds, and 10 assists in a game.
1981: Joined Magic Johnson
On November 15, 2024, James tied the Lakers franchise record for the most consecutive triple-doubles made, joining Magic Johnson (1981, 1987) and Russell Westbrook (2021).
1982: Became only the third reigning MVP to change teams
On July 10, 2010, LeBron James became only the third reigning MVP to change teams and the first since Moses Malone in 1982.
April 5, 1984: Abdul-Jabbar Sets Scoring Record
On April 5, 1984, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar set the record for all-time leading scorer in NBA history, eight months before LeBron James was born.
December 30, 1984: LeBron James Born
On December 30, 1984, LeBron Raymone James Sr. was born. He would later be nicknamed "King James" and become the NBA's all-time leading scorer.
1987: Joined Magic Johnson
On November 15, 2024, James tied the Lakers franchise record for the most consecutive triple-doubles made, joining Magic Johnson (1981, 1987) and Russell Westbrook (2021).
1998: Cavaliers qualify for the playoffs
The Cavaliers qualified for the playoffs for the first time since 1998.
2000: Previous USA Olympic Gold Medal
In 2000, Team USA won a gold medal, which made the 2008 Olympics the first gold medal since then.
2001: Featured in Slam Magazine and Sports Illustrated
In 2001, LeBron James was featured in Slam magazine and on the cover of Sports Illustrated, becoming the first high school basketball underclassman to do so. He was lauded as "[possibly] the best high school basketball player in America right now".
December 12, 2002: Game televised on ESPN2
On December 12, 2002, a game featuring LeBron James and St. Vincent–St. Mary against Oak Hill Academy was nationally televised on ESPN2.
2002: Petition to Enter NBA Draft
In 2002, LeBron James unsuccessfully petitioned for a change to the NBA's draft eligibility rules in an attempt to enter the 2002 NBA draft.
May 2003: James signs with Nike
In May 2003, LeBron James signed a seven-year deal with Nike for approximately $90 million.
2003: Custom Built Akron Mansion in 2003
In 2003, LeBron James custom built a 30,000 square foot mansion in Akron, Ohio on his property at a cost of $2.1 million.
2003: Enters NBA Draft
In 2003, LeBron James participated in three year-end high school basketball all-star games, losing his NCAA eligibility and making it official that he would enter the 2003 NBA draft.
2003: Drafted by Cleveland Cavaliers
In 2003, LeBron James was drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers with the first overall pick of the NBA draft.
2003: NBA Debut and Jersey Number Choice
In 2003, LeBron James was selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers as the first overall pick of the 2003 NBA draft and chose the jersey number 23 in honor of Michael Jordan. He scored 25 points in his debut game against the Sacramento Kings.
2003: Lakers' biggest comeback since 2003
On February 28, 2024, James spearheaded a 21-point fourth-quarter comeback by the Lakers to beat the Los Angeles Clippers 116–112, marking the Lakers' biggest comeback since 2003.
2004: NBA Rookie of the Year Award
At the conclusion of the 2003–2004 season, LeBron James received the NBA Rookie of the Year Award, becoming the first Cavalier to do so.
2004: First NBA All-Star Game Selection
In 2004, LeBron James earned his first NBA All-Star Game selection.
2004: Olympics Debut
In 2004, LeBron James made his debut for the United States national team at the Olympics in Athens, Greece, where the team won a bronze medal.
2004: Recognizing the Meaning of Representing the USA
In 2004, after playing for Team USA, LeBron James stated the team did not understand what it meant to wear a USA uniform and represent all the people. He credited the team's attitude and experience for their improvement later on.
2004: Shaquille O'Neal in Game 4 of the 2004 NBA Finals
In Game 4 of the Lakers' first-round series against the Memphis Grizzlies in 2023, LeBron James became the first Lakers player with a 20-20 game in the postseason since Shaquille O'Neal in Game 4 of the 2004 NBA Finals.
2005: Departure from Aaron Goodwin
In 2005, LeBron James left his first agent, Aaron Goodwin, marking a change in his representation.
2005: Time's 100 Most Influential People
In 2005, LeBron James was named as one of Time's 100 most influential people in the world.
2005: Sets Cleveland's Single-Game Points Record
On March 20, 2005, LeBron James scored 56 points against the Toronto Raptors, setting Cleveland's new single-game points record.
2005: LJFF holds annual bike-a-thon
Since 2005, the LeBron James Family Foundation (LJFF) has held an annual bike-a-thon to raise money for various causes.
2006: Signs Contract Extension
During the 2006 offseason, LeBron James signed a three-year, $60 million contract extension with the Cavaliers, including a fourth-year player option.
2006: Cavaliers Regular Season
During the 2006–2007 season, James finished the regular season averaging 27.3 points, 6.7 rebounds, 6.0 assists, and 1.6 steals per game.
2006: Contract Extension with the Cavaliers
In 2006, LeBron James and the Cavaliers negotiated a three-year, $60 million contract extension. This provided James the option to seek a new contract worth more money as an unrestricted free agent following the 2010 season.
2006: FIBA World Championship
In 2006, LeBron James played in the FIBA World Championship in Japan, where Team USA won another bronze medal. His behavior was questioned by teammate Bruce Bowen.
2006: All-Star Game MVP and Playoff Debut
In 2006, LeBron James was named the NBA All-Star Game Most Valuable Player. Also, under James's leadership, the Cavaliers qualified for the playoffs for the first time since 1998, marking his postseason debut where he recorded a triple-double.
2006: Discussed future free agency with Bosh and Wade
In 2006, LeBron James, Chris Bosh, and Dwyane Wade reportedly discussed their upcoming 2010 free agencies.
December 11, 2007: First Time Coming Off the Bench
On December 11, 2007, LeBron James came off the bench for the first time in his career to support teammate Anderson Varejão during a pay dispute.
2007: Coming off the bench for the second time in his career
In 2007, James came off the bench for just the second time in his career.
2007: Co-hosting the 2007 ESPY Awards
In 2007, LeBron James co-hosted the ESPY Awards alongside comedian Jimmy Kimmel, marking an early foray into comedic and hosting roles.
2007: LeBron Leads Cavaliers to NBA Finals
In 2007, LeBron James led the Cavaliers to their first-ever Eastern Conference championship, earning them a matchup with the San Antonio Spurs in the Finals. Lebron's performance in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals is considered one of the greatest playoff performances of all time.
2007: First NBA Finals Appearance
In 2007, LeBron James led the Cleveland Cavaliers to their first NBA Finals appearance.
2007: FIBA Americas Championship Gold Medal
In 2007, LeBron James played in the FIBA Americas Championship, averaging 18.1 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game. He scored 31 points against Argentina in the championship game, leading Team USA to a 10-0 record, a gold medal, and qualification for the 2008 Olympics.
2007: Leon Rose Joins CAA
In 2007, Leon Rose joined Creative Artists Agency (CAA).
2007: 2007 Finals Performance and Criticisms
In the 2007 NBA Finals, Spurs coach Gregg Popovich used a strategy to exploit James's weaknesses. James only converted on 36 percent of his field goals in four games.
March 2008: James appears on the cover of Vogue
In March 2008, LeBron James became the first black man, as well as the third man overall after Richard Gere and George Clooney, to appear on the cover of Vogue.
June 2008: James donates to Obama campaign
In June 2008, LeBron James donated $20,000 to a committee in support of Barack Obama for the 2008 U.S. presidential election.
2008: All-Defensive Team Nomination
At the end of the 2008–2009 season, James finished second in NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award voting and made his first NBA All-Defensive Team.
2008: 2008 Olympics Gold Medal
In 2008, LeBron James played for Team USA at the Olympics in Beijing, China. The team went undefeated, winning their first gold medal since 2000. In the final game against Spain, James recorded 14 points, six rebounds, and three assists.
2008: Hall of Fame Induction as member of Olympic team
In 2008, LeBron James was part of the "Redeem Team" U.S. Olympic team that would get him inducted in 2025 to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
2008: All-Star Game MVP and Scoring Title
In February of 2008, LeBron James was named All-Star Game MVP for the second time. On March 21, 2008, he moved past Brad Daugherty as the Cavaliers' all-time leading scorer and James also won the scoring title this year.
January 2009: Growth discovered in James' jaw
In January 2009, doctors at the Cleveland Clinic discovered a growth in the right side of LeBron James' jaw.
2009: Proficient at the Chase-Down Block in 2009
In 2009, LeBron James became proficient at the chase-down block, which involves coming in from behind the opposition in transition to block the shot.
2009: Forced into temporary point guard role
In 2009, LeBron James temporarily played point guard due to injuries in the Cavaliers' backcourt. He led the team to finish with the league's best record for the second straight season and increased his statistical production, averaging 29.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 8.6 assists, earning him another MVP Award.
2009: NBA MVP Award
In 2009, LeBron James won his first NBA Most Valuable Player Award.
2009: MVP Award and Franchise Record
In 2009, LeBron James won the MVP Award and Cleveland went a franchise record 66–16.
2009: Release of "More Than a Game" Documentary
In 2009, SpringHill Entertainment, owned by LeBron James and Maverick Carter, released its first work, the Lions Gate documentary "More Than a Game", chronicling James's high school basketball years.
2009: All-Defensive Honors from 2009 to 2014
LeBron James earned All-Defensive honors every season from 2009 to 2014.
July 1, 2010: Became an Unrestricted Free Agent
On July 1, 2010, LeBron James became an unrestricted free agent. He was contacted by several teams, including the Bulls, Los Angeles Clippers, Miami Heat, New York Knicks, New Jersey Nets, and Cavaliers.
July 10, 2010: Signed with the Miami Heat
On July 10, 2010, LeBron James officially signed a 6-year, $110 million contract with the Miami Heat. He changed his jersey number to 6 in honor of Michael Jordan. The Heat threw a welcome party, where James predicted a dynasty and multiple championships.
2010: Season with the Heat
During the 2010-11 season, LeBron James and the Heat were treated as villains. On December 2, 2010, James faced the Cavaliers in Cleveland for the first time since leaving, scoring 38 points and leading Miami to a win amid boos. The Heat finished the season as the East's second seed.
2010: James listed as one of the most disliked athletes
Following his actions during the 2010 free agency period and The Decision, LeBron James was listed as one of the most disliked athletes in the United States.
2010: Option to Seek New Contract
Following the 2010 season, LeBron James had the option to seek a new contract which ultimately allowed him, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh to sign together with the Heat.
2010: Did Not Play at the 2010 FIBA World Championship
In 2010, LeBron James did not participate in the FIBA World Championship.
2010: Joins Miami Heat
In 2010, LeBron James left the Cleveland Cavaliers and joined the Miami Heat as a free agent. This decision was announced in a nationally televised special titled "The Decision".
2010: Move to the Heat in 2010 Defines Player Movement
In 2010, LeBron James's move to the Heat defined a decade of player movement and fundamentally flipped the power balance between stars and their organizations, influencing player empowerment throughout the NBA.
2010: Facilitating Move to Miami
In 2010, Leon Rose and Henry Thomas (CAA agents) worked together to bring LeBron James to Miami.
2010: Drew intense criticism for leaving the Cavaliers
In 2010, after leaving the Cavaliers, LeBron James faced substantial criticism from sports analysts, executives, fans, and players, and the phrase "taking my talents to South Beach" became a punch line. There were accusations of forming a superteam with Bosh and Wade, and James later suggested race might have been a factor in the fallout.
2010: Potential Free Agency
LeBron James' potential free agency was aligned for the 2010 offseason with fellow draft class members Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh.
2011: Football Contract Offers During NBA Lockout
During the 2011 NBA lockout, LeBron James received contract offers to play professional football from the Dallas Cowboys and Seattle Seahawks.
2011: Worked with Hakeem Olajuwon to improve post game
During the extended summer of 2011 due to a lockout, LeBron James worked with Hakeem Olajuwon to improve his post up game. The experience inspired James to leave behind the villain role and regain a sense of joy on the court.
2011: Fenway Sports Group becomes global marketer
In 2011, Fenway Sports Group became the sole global marketer of LeBron James's rights, and as part of the deal, James was granted a minority stake in the English Premier League football club Liverpool.
2011: Part-owner of Liverpool F.C.
Since 2011, LeBron James has been a part-owner of Liverpool F.C.
2012: ESPN Ranks Game 5 Performance
In 2012, ESPN ranked LeBron James's Game 5 performance in the 2007 Eastern Conference Finals as the fourth greatest in modern NBA playoff history.
2012: Versatile Defender in 2012
In 2012, LeBron James developed into a more versatile defensive player, and the Heat relied on him to guard all five positions.
2012: 2012 Olympics Gold Medal and Records
In 2012, LeBron James led Team USA to win their second straight gold medal at the London Olympics, defeating Spain in the final. He recorded the first triple-double in U.S. Olympic basketball history against Australia, and became the all-time leading scorer in U.S. men's basketball history. He also joined Michael Jordan as the only players to win an NBA MVP award, NBA championship, NBA Finals MVP, and Olympic gold medal in the same year.
2012: Departure from CAA
In 2012, LeBron James left CAA for Rich Paul of Klutch Sports.
2012: Named MVP for the third time
In 2012, LeBron James was named MVP for the third time, finishing with averages of 27.1 points, 7.9 rebounds, 6.2 assists, and 1.9 steals per game, and the Miami Heat began the year with a franchise-best 18-6 record.
2012: First NBA Championship with the Heat
In 2012, LeBron James won his first NBA championship with the Miami Heat, earning both MVP and Finals MVP honors.
2012: Investment in Blaze Pizza
In 2012, LeBron James, Maverick Carter, and Paul Wachter invested less than $1 million in Blaze Pizza, a Pasadena-based fast-casual chain.
2012: Cavs option to swap draft picks with the Heat
In 2012, as part of the deal when LeBron signed with the Heat on July 10, 2010, the Cavaliers had the option to swap first round picks with the Heat.
2012: Set multiple shooting efficiency records
In February of 2012, LeBron James averaged 29.7 points and 7.8 assists per game while setting multiple shooting efficiency records. The Heat also began a 27-game winning streak. James's performance was described as a "month for the ages" by Sports Illustrated.
September 14, 2013: Marriage to Savannah James on September 14, 2013
On September 14, 2013, LeBron James married his high school sweetheart, Savannah James, in San Diego, California.
2013: James reported as the most popular player in the NBA
By 2013, LeBron James' image had mostly recovered and he was reported by ESPN as the most popular player in the NBA for the second time in his career.
2013: James surpasses Bryant as highest paid basketball player
In 2013, LeBron James surpassed Kobe Bryant as the highest paid basketball player in the world, with earnings of $56.5 million.
2013: Time's 100 Most Influential People
In 2013, LeBron James was named as one of Time's 100 most influential people in the world.
2013: Second NBA Championship with the Heat
In 2013, LeBron James won his second NBA championship with the Miami Heat, earning both MVP and Finals MVP honors.
2013: Scored career-high 61 points against Bobcats
On March 3, 2013, LeBron James scored a career-high and franchise-record 61 points in a game against the Charlotte Bobcats, converting on his first eight three-point attempts.
June 25, 2014: Opted out of contract with the Heat
On June 25, 2014, LeBron James opted out of his contract with the Miami Heat, officially becoming an unrestricted free agent on July 1.
2014: Regression in Defensive Impact Beginning in 2014
Beginning in 2014, some analysts reported a regression in LeBron James's defensive impact, stemming from a lack of effort and expected age-related declines. During his second stint in Cleveland, James's defense progressively declined.
2014: James asks NBA commissioner to increase All-Star break duration
In 2014, LeBron James asked NBA commissioner Adam Silver to increase the duration of the All-Star break, and the request was granted the following season.
2014: Experiencing Cramps and Founding Ladder
In 2014, LeBron James experienced severe cramps during the NBA Finals. Later, in 2018, James partnered with Arnold Schwarzenegger to found Ladder, a company that developed nutritional supplements to help athletes with severe cramps.
2014: James realizes profit from Apple's acquisition of Beats Electronics
In 2014, LeBron James realized a profit of more than $30 million as part of Apple's acquisition of Beats Electronics; he had originally struck a deal to get a small stake in the company at its inception in exchange for promoting its headphones.
2014: Returns to Cleveland Cavaliers
In 2014, LeBron James returned to the Cleveland Cavaliers after four seasons with the Miami Heat.
2014: James speaks out against Donald Sterling's racist comments
In 2014, LeBron James took a public stance against the now-former NBA owner Donald Sterling's racist comments.
2014: James named most popular male athlete in America
In 2014, LeBron James was named the most popular male athlete in America by the Harris Poll.
2014: Missed two weeks due to injury
In January of 2014, LeBron James missed two weeks due to left knee and lower back strains, representing the longest stretch of missed games in his career at the time.
2014: All-Defensive Honors from 2009 to 2014
LeBron James earned All-Defensive honors every season from 2009 to 2014.
February 13, 2015: James elected first vice president of NBPA
On February 13, 2015, LeBron James was elected the first vice president of the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA).
November 2015: Purchase of Brentwood Mansion in November 2015
In November 2015, LeBron James bought a 9,350 square-foot East Coast-style mansion in Brentwood, Los Angeles, for about $21 million.
2015: Criticized for off-court controversies
During the 2015-16 season, LeBron James faced criticism for his role in off-court controversies, including the midseason firing of Cavaliers' coach David Blatt. Despite this, Cleveland finished with the best record in the East.
2015: Advanced to NBA Finals
In 2015, LeBron James and the Cavaliers defeated the Atlanta Hawks to advance to the NBA Finals, making James the first player since the 1960s to play in five consecutive Finals.
2015: Partnership with University of Akron announced
In 2015, LeBron James announced a partnership with the University of Akron to provide scholarships for as many as 2,300 children beginning in 2021.
2015: Appearance in "Trainwreck" and Uninterrupted Funding
In 2015, LeBron James appeared as himself in the film "Trainwreck", receiving positive reviews. Also in 2015, his digital video company Uninterrupted secured $15.8 million in funding from Warner Bros. Entertainment and Turner Sports to expand its athlete-created content platform.
2015: James ranked sixth highest earning sportsperson
In 2015, LeBron James was ranked the sixth highest earning sportsperson.
2015: Lowest Scoring Averages Since Rookie Season in 2015
In 2015, upon returning to the Cavaliers, James began to experience subtle age-related declines in productivity, posting his lowest scoring averages since his rookie season.
2015: Declined Player Option and Re-Signed
In the 2015 offseason, LeBron James declined his $21.5 million player option and re-signed on a two-year, $46.9 million contract that again carried a second year player option.
November 2016: James endorses Hillary Clinton
In November 2016, LeBron James endorsed and campaigned for Hillary Clinton for the 2016 U.S. presidential election.
2016: Regression in Defensive Impact in 2016
Beginning in 2014, some analysts reported a regression in LeBron James's defensive impact, stemming from a lack of effort and expected age-related declines. By 2016, during his second stint in Cleveland, his defense progressively declined.
2016: Re-signed with the Cavaliers after championship
Following the championship in 2016, LeBron James opted out of his contract and re-signed with the Cavaliers on a three-year, $100 million contract.
2016: James Acknowledges Motivation to Surpass Jordan in 2016
In 2016, LeBron James acknowledged in an interview with Sports Illustrated that his motivation was surpassing Michael Jordan as the greatest basketball player of all time.
2016: James donates $2.5 million to museum for Muhammad Ali exhibit
In 2016, LeBron James donated $2.5 million to the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture to support an exhibit on Muhammad Ali.
2016: First Championship for Cleveland Cavaliers
In 2016, LeBron James led the Cleveland Cavaliers to their first-ever NBA championship, overcoming a 3-1 deficit against the Golden State Warriors.
2016: Highest-Paid Player in the League
In 2016, LeBron James signed a three-year deal with the Cavaliers, becoming the highest-paid player in the league for the first time in his career.
2016: James ranked third highest earning sportsperson
In 2016, LeBron James was ranked the third highest earning sportsperson.
2016: Lowest Scoring Averages Since Rookie Season in 2016
In 2016, upon returning to the Cavaliers, James experienced subtle age-related declines in productivity, posting his lowest scoring averages since his rookie season.
November 2017: Akron School Board approves I Promise School
In November 2017, the Akron School Board approved the I Promise School, a public elementary school created in a partnership with the LJFF to help struggling elementary school students stay in school.
December 2017: Purchase of Another Brentwood Home in December 2017
In December 2017, LeBron James purchased another home in Brentwood for $23 million.
2017: Blaze Pizza Investment Growth
By 2017, LeBron James's investment in Blaze Pizza had grown to $25 million. James became a spokesman for the company after ending his McDonald's contract.
2017: James comments on racist incident and "Make America Great Again" slogan
Following a racist incident at his Los Angeles home in 2017, LeBron James expressed that "being black in America is tough". Later that year, in the aftermath of the Unite the Right rally, James questioned the "Make America Great Again" slogan.
2017: James receives J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award
In 2017, LeBron James received the J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award from the NBA for his outstanding service and dedication to the community.
2017: Time's 100 Most Influential People
In 2017, LeBron James was named as one of Time's 100 most influential people in the world.
2017: Executive Production of "The Carter Effect"
In 2017, at the Toronto International Film Festival, the Vince Carter documentary "The Carter Effect" was executive produced by LeBron James, Maverick Carter, Drake, and Future the Prince.
February 2018: The Ringer's Week Devoted to James and Jordan in February 2018
In February 2018, The Ringer dedicated an entire week to comparing LeBron James and Michael Jordan, with Bill Simmons concluding that Jordan was still ahead.
February 2018: House Party Film Production and Laura Ingraham Controversy
In February 2018, it was announced that James's production company would produce a new film in the "House Party" series. Also in February 2018, Fox News host Laura Ingraham told James to "shut up and dribble" in response to his political views, leading to the creation of the documentary series "Shut Up and Dribble."
June 29, 2018: James opts out of Cavaliers contract
On June 29, 2018, LeBron James opted out of his contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers, becoming an unrestricted free agent.
July 30, 2018: I Promise School officially opens
On July 30, 2018, the I Promise School officially opened, with LeBron James reflecting that it was his most important professional accomplishment.
2018: James criticizes Trump in CNN interview
During a 2018 interview with CNN journalist Don Lemon, LeBron James accused President Donald Trump of attempting to divide the country with sports, and declared that he would never sit across from him.
2018: Signs with the Lakers
In 2018, LeBron James signed with the Los Angeles Lakers.
2018: Format Change of All-Star Game
In 2018, the format of the NBA All-Star Game was changed. Leading up to the 2023 All-Star Game, James had been undefeated as a captain with a 5-0 record since the format was changed.
February 2019: Executive Production of 2 Chainz's Album "Rap or Go to the League"
In February 2019, LeBron James was revealed to be the executive producer of rapper 2 Chainz's new album, "Rap or Go to the League". The album's intent is to promote black excellence, education, and entrepreneurship.
November 2019: Oldest player to record a triple-double
On November 13, 2024, James broke his own record previously set in November 2019 for the oldest player to record a triple-double in three consecutive games.
2019: James statement about Daryl Morey tweet sparks controversy
During the 2019–2020 Hong Kong protests, a statement LeBron James made about a since-deleted tweet by Daryl Morey, in which Morey expressed support for the pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong, became the subject of controversy.
2019: Attempted Trademark of "Taco Tuesday"
In 2019, LeBron James filed for a trademark on the term "Taco Tuesday" for use in various media and entertainment services, related to his family's use of the term on Instagram. The request was denied by the United States Patent and Trademark Office.
2019: Time's 100 Most Influential People
In 2019, LeBron James was named as one of Time's 100 most influential people in the world.
July 2020: James's rookie card sells for $1.8 million
In July 2020, one of LeBron James's rookie cards briefly held the record for the most expensive modern-day sports card when it sold for $1.8 million at auction.
August 19, 2020: James announces support for Biden-Harris campaign
On August 19, 2020, LeBron James announced his intentions to support the Joe Biden 2020 presidential campaign and that of his running-mate Kamala Harris in advance of the 2020 U.S. presidential election.
August 27, 2020: James and Lakers boycott NBA playoffs
On August 27, 2020, LeBron James and his Lakers teammates, as well as the Bucks, began boycotting the 2020 NBA playoffs to protest the shooting of Jacob Blake.
September 2020: Purchase of Beverly Hills Home in September 2020
In September 2020, LeBron James purchased a third home in Los Angeles, this one in Beverly Hills for $36.75 million.
November 2020: Angel Investment in Lobos 1707
In November 2020, LeBron James became an angel investor in the tequila and mezcal company Lobos 1707.
December 22, 2020: Start of the 2020-2021 NBA season
On December 22, 2020, the 2020-2021 NBA season started with a 116–109 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers, after the shortest offseason in NBA history due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
2020: Another Title with Lakers
In 2020, LeBron James won another NBA title with the Los Angeles Lakers, becoming the first player to win Finals MVP with three different teams.
2020: James' statement on Morey tweet is controversial
In 2020, LeBron James' statement about a since-deleted tweet by Daryl Morey, in which Morey expressed support for the pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong, became the subject of controversy. James said Morey was "misinformed".
February 18, 2021: James reaches 35,000 career points
On February 18, 2021, LeBron James became the third player in NBA history to reach 35,000 career points, at the age of 36 years and 50 days, becoming the youngest player to reach this milestone.
March 2021: Assisted in Atlanta Dream Purchase and Joined Fenway Sports Group
In March 2021, LeBron James assisted Renee Montgomery in her successful bid to buy the WNBA's Atlanta Dream. Also in March 2021, James joined Fenway Sports Group as a partner, becoming a part-owner of the Boston Red Sox, New England Sports Network, RFK Racing, and Liverpool F.C.
2021: Stars in Space Jam: A New Legacy
In 2021, LeBron James starred in the sports film "Space Jam: A New Legacy".
2021: Scholarships provided for children
In 2021, scholarships were provided for as many as 2,300 children via a partnership between LeBron James and the University of Akron.
2021: Joined Russell Westbrook
On November 15, 2024, James tied the Lakers franchise record for the most consecutive triple-doubles made, joining Magic Johnson (1981, 1987) and Russell Westbrook (2021).
February 2022: James called hypocritical for stance on China
In February 2022, political commentator Bill Maher called LeBron James hypocritical for not taking a critical stance towards the Chinese government's human rights abuses.
February 26, 2022: James ends streak of 23 consecutive 25-point games
On February 26, 2022, LeBron James ended a streak of 23 consecutive games with at least 25 points, having played 23 out of 27 games since December 19, 2021.
June 2022: Launch of Hana Kuma Media Company
In June 2022, LeBron James announced the launch of a new media company named Hana Kuma, in partnership with tennis player Naomi Osaka and Maverick Carter. Hana Kuma means "flower bear" in Japanese.
August 2022: Part Ownership of A.C. Milan
In August 2022, LeBron James, along with Drake, became part owners of the Italian football club A.C. Milan.
August 18, 2022: James signs contract extension with the Lakers
On August 18, 2022, LeBron James signed a two-year, $97.1 million contract extension with the Los Angeles Lakers, which included a player option for the second year, making him the highest-paid athlete in NBA history.
2022: James appears in Crypto.com Super Bowl advertisement
During Super Bowl LVI in 2022, LeBron James appeared in a Crypto.com advertisement, where he conversed with a CGI version of his younger self, offering advice about the future.
2022: Crypto.com NFT Airdrop and Partnership with LeBron James Family Foundation
In 2022, Crypto.com launched an NFT airdrop campaign featuring LeBron James, distributing 5,550 tokens to randomly chosen participants who scanned a QR code in the Super Bowl ad. Additionally, in 2022, the LeBron James Family Foundation partnered with Crypto.com to provide blockchain and Web3 education to underserved communities in Akron.
2022: Regular season
In 2022, James had averages of 28.9 points per game, 8.3 rebounds per game, 6.8 assists per game, becoming the oldest player in NBA history to average at least 25 points, five rebounds, and five assists in a season.
2022: James mentions feeling of obligation to effect change using his status
In 2022, LeBron James spoke out about the ruling of Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization that overturned Roe v. Wade, as one of many instances where he has taken public stances on controversial issues, and has mentioned a feeling of obligation to effect change using his status.
2022: Desire to Play into Forties in 2022
In 2022, LeBron James voiced his desire to play into his forties, potentially alongside or against his sons Bronny and Bryce.
2022: James at the 2022 NBA All-Star Game
In 2022, at the NBA All-Star Game held in Cleveland, LeBron James was celebrated as part of the NBA 75th Anniversary Team. Leading in fan votes for his 18th All-Star selection, his team secured its fifth consecutive All-Star victory.
January 9, 2023: Player of the Week Award
On January 9, 2023, LeBron James received his 66th Player of the Week award, which was double the career total of runner-up Bryant.
February 7, 2023: All-Time Leading Scorer in NBA History
On February 7, 2023, LeBron James passed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to become the all-time leading scorer in NBA history. The game was stopped, and a ceremony was held on the court where he received the game ball from Abdul-Jabbar.
April 11, 2023: LeBron biography published
LeBron James' biography LeBron was published on April 11, 2023, by Jeff Benedict.
May 2023: James becomes a billionaire
According to Forbes, in May 2023, LeBron James became the first active NBA player to become a billionaire.
June 2023: Most Followed Basketball Player on Instagram
As of June 2023, LeBron James is the most followed basketball player on Instagram, boasting over 155 million followers.
September 2023: Biogenesis Scandal Client Names Released in September 2023
In September 2023, ESPN reported that a new set of client names from the Biogenesis scandal had been released; included was Ernest "Randy" Mims, a longtime friend and business manager of LeBron James. The DEA determined that there "was never any indication that LeBron James did anything wrong."
2023: Oldest Player in the League
Entering the 2023-24 NBA season, LeBron James was the oldest player in the league after the retirements of Udonis Haslem and Andre Iguodala.
2023: NBA Cup win
In 2023, LeBron James and the Lakers won the inaugural NBA Cup.
2023: Lakers Reach Western Conference Finals
In 2023, LeBron James led the Lakers to the Western Conference Finals, marking their second Conference Finals appearance in five seasons, where they were eventually swept by the Denver Nuggets.
2023: NBA All-Time Leading Scorer
In 2023, LeBron James surpassed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to become the NBA's all-time leading scorer.
2023: Bronny Named McDonald's All-American in 2023
In 2023, LeBron James's son, Bronny, was named as a McDonald's All-American, 20 years after James's own selection.
January 25, 2024: 20th NBA All-Star Selection
On January 25, 2024, LeBron James was named an All-Star starter for the 2024 NBA All-Star Game, marking his 20th NBA All-Star selection and surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for the most All-Star selections in NBA history.
March 2024: Launch of "Mind the Game" Podcast
In March 2024, LeBron James and JJ Redick launched a podcast called "Mind the Game," focusing on basketball discussions.
June 2024: "Mind the Game" Podcast Suspension
In June 2024, the "Mind the Game" podcast was suspended after JJ Redick was hired as the head coach for the Los Angeles Lakers.
July 6, 2024: Resigned with the Lakers
On July 6, 2024, James re-signed with the Lakers on a two-year, $104 million contract which carried a no-trade clause and had a player option in the second year.
October 22, 2024: First Time Sharing the Court with Bronny in the NBA in 2024
On October 22, 2024, LeBron James shared the court with his son Bronny for the first time in the NBA, during the season opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
October 31, 2024: James supports Kamala Harris 2024 campaign
On October 31, 2024, LeBron James announced his support for the Kamala Harris 2024 presidential campaign in the 2024 U.S. presidential election in a video posted on social media.
2024: All-NBA Team Selection in 2024
As of 2024, LeBron James has been named to 21 All-NBA Teams, including 13 times to the First Team, which are both NBA records.
2024: First father-son teammates in league history
In 2024, LeBron James and his son Bronny James became the first father-son teammates in NBA league history.
2024: Named FIBA Men's Olympics MVP and Selection to the FIBA Men's Olympics All-Star Five in 2024
In 2024, LeBron James rejoined the national team on the Olympic squad in Paris as Team Captain. Voted by the U.S. delegation, James was named as one of the Team USA flag-bearers for the opening ceremony of the games, becoming the first male basketball player to be so honored. James led the team in rebounds and assists and recorded his second Olympic triple double in a comeback win in the semi-final against Serbia. Team USA went on to win their fifth straight gold medal, defeating France 98–87 in the final game. At the conclusion of the tournament, James was named the FIBA Men's Olympics MVP and was selected to the FIBA Men's Olympics All-Star Five.
2024: Career Averages and Rankings in 2024
Through the 2024-25 season, LeBron James's career averages are 27.0 points, 7.5 rebounds, 7.4 assists, 1.5 steals, and 0.7 blocks per game. Throughout the 2010s, he was usually ranked as the best player in the NBA each season by ESPN and Sports Illustrated.
January 3, 2025: Most 30-Point Games
On January 3, 2025, LeBron James surpassed Michael Jordan for the most 30-point games in NBA history with 563 games.
March 4, 2025: Surpassed 50,000 career points
On March 4, 2025, James surpassed 50,000 career points across the regular season and playoffs during a 136–115 win against the New Orleans Pelicans.
March 2025: "Mind the Game" Second Season Announcement
In March 2025, a second season of the "Mind the Game" podcast was announced, with Steve Nash replacing JJ Redick as James's co-host.
March 2025: James denies spending $1.5 million on health
In a March 2025 interview, LeBron James denied spending $1.5 million a year on his health, claiming he did not know where that number came from.
2025: Hall of Fame Induction
In 2025, LeBron James was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as a member of the 2008 U.S. Olympic team.
2025: James added to Barbie roster as a Ken doll
In 2025, Mattel announced that it was adding LeBron James to the Barbie roster, making him the first professional male athlete to be honoured as a Ken doll.
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