History of LeBron James in Timeline
LeBron James, nicknamed "King James", is an American professional basketball player for the Los Angeles Lakers. Widely considered one of the greatest basketball players of all time, he is often compared to Michael Jordan. James has achieved significant success, winning four NBA championships, two Olympic gold medals, and the inaugural NBA Cup in 2023.
1976: James Matches Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's Historic Feat
On January 27, 2024, LeBron James became the first player in Lakers franchise history since Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in 1976 to put up at least 30 points, 20 rebounds, and 10 assists in a game.
1982: Historical Comparison
LeBron James became only the third reigning MVP to change teams and the first since Moses Malone in 1982.
April 5, 1984: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Sets Scoring Record
On April 5, 1984, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar set the NBA's all-time scoring record, a record that would stand for almost 39 years until LeBron James surpassed it in 2023. This record occurred 8 months before James was born.
December 30, 1984: Birth of LeBron James
LeBron James was born on December 30, 1984 in Akron, Ohio. This event marked the beginning of the journey of one of basketball's most iconic figures.
1998: Cleveland Cavaliers' Return to Playoffs
Under LeBron James' leadership, the Cleveland Cavaliers qualified for the playoffs in 2006 for the first time since 1998, marking a significant turnaround for the franchise and showcasing James' impact as a leader.
2000: Team USA Ends Olympic Gold Medal Drought
In 2008, Team USA ended their Olympic gold medal drought, winning their first gold since 2000.
2001: National Recognition in High School
LeBron James garnered significant national media attention in 2001 as a high school junior, highlighting his exceptional skills and potential as a future NBA superstar. He was featured in Slam magazine and on the cover of Sports Illustrated, a testament to his early promise.
December 12, 2002: Nationally Televised High School Game
On December 12, 2002, LeBron James played in a nationally televised high school basketball game against Oak Hill Academy on ESPN2, further showcasing his exceptional talent to a wider audience and increasing his national profile.
2002: Unsuccessful Petition for Early NBA Entry
In 2002, LeBron James unsuccessfully petitioned to change the NBA's draft eligibility rules in an attempt to enter the draft early, highlighting his ambition and eagerness to begin his professional career.
2003: James Leads Largest Fourth-Quarter Comeback of His Career
On February 28, 2024, LeBron James led the Lakers to a comeback win against the Los Angeles Clippers, marking the largest fourth-quarter comeback of his career and the Lakers' biggest comeback since 2003.
2003: NBA Draft Selection
LeBron James was selected as the first overall pick in the 2003 NBA draft by his hometown team, the Cleveland Cavaliers, launching his professional basketball career.
2003: NBA Debut
LeBron James made his highly anticipated NBA debut in 2003, scoring 25 points in a loss to the Sacramento Kings. This marked the beginning of his professional journey and showcased his immediate impact on the league.
2003: Entry into the NBA Draft
LeBron James officially entered the 2003 NBA draft, marking the end of his illustrious high school career and the start of his journey toward professional basketball stardom.
2003: LeBron James Signs with Nike
Coming out of high school in 2003, LeBron James signed a seven-year endorsement deal with Nike for approximately $90 million after a bidding war with Reebok and Adidas.
2003: Construction of Akron Mansion
In 2003, LeBron James invested $2.1 million to custom build a lavish 30,000-square-foot mansion on his property in Akron, Ohio.
2004: James Makes Olympic Debut, Team USA Wins Bronze
LeBron James made his debut for the United States national team at the 2004 Olympics in Athens, Greece. The team finished with a bronze medal, the first time the U.S. men's basketball team failed to win gold since the inclusion of NBA players. James expressed disappointment over his limited playing time.
2004: NBA Rookie of the Year Award
LeBron James received the NBA Rookie of the Year award in 2004, highlighting his exceptional first year in the league and solidifying his place as a rising star.
2004: NBA Rookie of the Year Award
LeBron James was named the NBA Rookie of the Year in 2004, solidifying his status as a rising star and showcasing his immediate impact on the league.
2004: First NBA All-Star Selection
LeBron James was selected to his first NBA All-Star game in 2004, signifying his ascension into the ranks of the league's elite players and showcasing his rapid development.
2004: James Reflects on 2004 Olympics
Reflecting on the 2004 Olympics, LeBron James acknowledged the team's lack of understanding of the significance of representing the United States.
2005: Annual Bike-a-thon for Charity
Since 2005, LeBron James' foundation has organized an annual bike-a-thon, raising funds for various important causes.
2005: First All-NBA Team Selection
LeBron James was named to his first All-NBA Team in 2005, further solidifying his status as one of the league's best players and showcasing his consistent performance.
2005: Time's 100 Most Influential People
LeBron James was first recognized as one of Time's 100 most influential people in 2005, demonstrating his growing impact beyond basketball and into the realm of global influence.
2005: Last Time LeBron James Missed the Playoffs
In 2005, LeBron James, then with the Cleveland Cavaliers, did not participate in the playoffs. This was a rare occurrence in his otherwise successful career.
2005: James Parts Ways with Agent Aaron Goodwin
In 2005, LeBron James decided to end his professional relationship with his agent, Aaron Goodwin.
2006: James Co-Captains Team USA to Another Bronze Medal, Faces Criticism for Behavior
At the 2006 FIBA World Championship, LeBron James took on a larger role as co-captain of Team USA. The team again won a bronze medal. However, James' behavior was questioned by teammate Bruce Bowen.
2006: James Negotiates Three-Year Contract Extension with Cavaliers
In 2006, LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers reached an agreement on a three-year, $60 million contract extension. This decision, a departure from the typical four-year maximum contract, was strategic, allowing James to explore more lucrative options as an unrestricted free agent after the 2010 season. This strategic move played a pivotal role in enabling James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh to unite in Miami.
2006: 2006–2007 Season Decline
In the 2006–2007 season, LeBron James's averages declined to 27.3 points, 6.7 rebounds, 6 assists, and 1.6 steals per game. Some analysts attributed the fall to a regression in his passing skills and shot selection, which stemmed from a lack of effort and focus. The Cavaliers finished the season with 50 wins for the second consecutive year and entered the playoffs as the East's second seed.
2006: All-Star Game MVP
LeBron James was named the NBA All-Star Game Most Valuable Player in 2006, demonstrating his dominance even in exhibition games and showcasing his growing stardom.
2006: Free Agency Discussion
Reports later arose that back in 2006, LeBron James along with fellow free agents Chris Bosh and Dwyane Wade had discussed their upcoming 2010 free agencies and the possibility of joining forces.
2007: LeBron James Co-hosts ESPY Awards
LeBron James co-hosted the 2007 ESPY Awards with comedian Jimmy Kimmel.
2007: Leon Rose Joins Creative Artists Agency (CAA)
Leon Rose, who became LeBron James's agent after he left Aaron Goodwin, joined Creative Artists Agency (CAA) in 2007.
2007: First NBA Finals Appearance
LeBron James led the Cleveland Cavaliers to their first ever NBA Finals appearance in 2007, a significant milestone for both James and the franchise.
2007: Eastern Conference Finals Victory
In Game 5 of the 2006–2007 Eastern Conference Finals on May 31, 2007, LeBron James logged 48 points with 9 rebounds and 7 assists, scoring 29 of Cleveland's last 30 points, including the game-winning layup with two seconds left, in a 109–107 double-overtime victory against the Pistons. This performance was highly praised and described as "Jordan-esque". The Cavaliers went on to win Game 6 and claim their first-ever Eastern Conference championship.
2007: All-Star Game MVP
In February of the 2007–2008 season, LeBron James was named All-Star Game MVP for the second time behind a 27-point, 8-rebound, and 9-assist performance.
2007: James Comes Off the Bench
In 2007, for only the second time in his career, LeBron James came off the bench in a game.
2007: James's Early Career and Finals Debut
In 2007, LeBron James, a young player in his first stint with the Cavaliers, faced criticism for his jump shot and post game, particularly during the Finals against the Spurs.
2007: Team USA Wins Gold at FIBA Americas Championship
In 2007, LeBron James played a key role in Team USA's gold medal victory at the FIBA Americas Championship, which secured their qualification for the 2008 Olympics.
March 2008: James Featured on Vogue Cover
LeBron James made history in March 2008 when he appeared on the cover of Vogue with Gisele Bündchen, becoming the first black man and third man overall to achieve this.
June 2008: LeBron James Supports Barack Obama
In June 2008, LeBron James donated to and gathered people for a viewing of Barack Obama's presidential campaign advertisement.
2008: James Leads Team USA to Olympic Gold
After heeding advice to improve his attitude, LeBron James helped Team USA win the gold medal at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing. The team went undefeated, securing their first gold medal since 2000.
2008: NBA Defensive Player of the Year Voting
At the conclusion of the 2008–2009 season, LeBron James finished second in NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award voting and made his first NBA All-Defensive Team, posting 23 chase-down blocks and a career-high 93 total blocks.
2008: Kobe Bryant's Back-to-Back 50-Point Games
In 2008, Kobe Bryant, playing for the Los Angeles Lakers, achieved back-to-back 50-point home games. This feat would later be matched by LeBron James in 2022.
2008: Cavaliers' All-Time Leading Scorer
On March 21, 2008, LeBron James moved past Brad Daugherty as the Cavaliers' all-time leading scorer in a game against the Raptors, achieving this milestone in over 100 fewer games than Daugherty.
January 2009: Discovery of Benign Jaw Tumor
In January 2009, doctors at the Cleveland Clinic diagnosed James with a benign jaw tumor in his parotid gland.
2009: James Earns All-Defensive Honors
LeBron James consistently earned All-Defensive honors from 2009 onwards.
2009: First NBA MVP Award
LeBron James received his first NBA Most Valuable Player award in 2009, cementing his place among the league's elite players.
2009: "More Than a Game" Documentary Release
In 2009, "More Than a Game," a documentary chronicling LeBron James's high school basketball career, was released by Lions Gate Entertainment. The film was produced by SpringHill Entertainment, a production company owned by James and his business partner Maverick Carter.
2009: First MVP Award
In the 2008–2009 season, LeBron James became the first Cavalier to win the MVP Award. He also became only the fourth postmerger player to lead his team in points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks in a single season.
2009: Temporary Point Guard Role
In February of the 2009–2010 season, LeBron James was forced into a temporary point guard role following a series of injuries to players in the Cavaliers' backcourt. Despite the challenges, he led Cleveland to the best record in the league for the second consecutive season.
2009: James Improves Defensively
In 2009, LeBron James started to excel defensively, particularly with his chase-down blocks.
July 1, 2010: Unrestricted Free Agent
LeBron James became an unrestricted free agent at 12:01 am EDT on July 1, 2010. During this time, 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: Signing with the Heat
On July 10, 2010, LeBron James officially signed with the Miami Heat through a sign-and-trade deal. That evening, the Heat hosted a welcome party for their new 'big three' at the American Airlines Arena, which took on a rock concert atmosphere.
2010: Criticism During Playoffs
During the 2009–2010 playoffs, LeBron James faced heavy criticism for his performance in Game 5 of the series against the Celtics, where he shot only 20 percent on 14 shots and scored 15 points. The Cavaliers were eliminated from the postseason in Game 6.
2010: The Heat's Rocky Start and James's Return to Cleveland
In 2010, LeBron James and the Miami Heat faced a wave of negativity from fans and media. They struggled initially, going 9-8 in their first 17 games. James admitted the criticism affected his performance, leading to a more aggressive playing style. On December 2, 2010, James returned to Cleveland for the first time since leaving the Cavaliers. He faced intense boos but led Miami to a win with 38 points. The Heat eventually found their rhythm, finishing as the East's second seed.
2010: James Becomes a Free Agent
In 2010, LeBron James entered the NBA as a free agent, creating significant anticipation and speculation within the league.
2010: First Departure From Cleveland and Joining Miami Heat
In 2010, LeBron James left the Cleveland Cavaliers for the first time to join the Miami Heat, a move primarily motivated by his desire to win championships.
2010: James Signs with Miami Heat
In 2010, LeBron James made a significant career move by signing with the Miami Heat. This decision was orchestrated with the help of his CAA agents, Leon Rose and Henry Thomas, who also represented Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh, paving the way for the trio to team up in Miami.
2010: Backlash Following "The Decision"
LeBron James faced significant criticism and became one of the most disliked athletes in the U.S. following his televised announcement of his move to the Miami Heat in 2010, referred to as "The Decision."
2010: Controversial Move to Miami Heat
LeBron James made the highly publicized decision to leave the Cleveland Cavaliers and join the Miami Heat in 2010, sparking a major controversy in the sports world and marking a significant shift in his career.
2010: James Skips FIBA World Championship
LeBron James opted not to participate in the 2010 FIBA World Championship.
2010: Lakers' Last Finals Appearance
The Los Angeles Lakers had not appeared in the NBA Finals since 2010, highlighting a decade without a championship run.
2010: Criticism of 'The Decision'
Upon leaving the Cavaliers in 2010, LeBron James drew intense criticism for his televised announcement, 'The Decision,' where he revealed he would sign with the Miami Heat. This move was widely scrutinized and led to a negative public perception.
2010: James's Move to the Heat
In 2010, LeBron James's decision to join the Miami Heat marked a significant shift in player empowerment within the NBA, influencing player movement and challenging traditional team dynamics.
2011: Part-Owner of Liverpool F.C.
LeBron James became a part-owner of Liverpool F.C. in 2011, expanding his business ventures and global brand into the world of professional soccer.
2011: First NBA Finals Appearance Streak
LeBron James started his streak of eight consecutive NBA Finals appearances in 2011, showcasing his dominance and consistency at the highest level of professional basketball.
2011: LeBron James Partners with Fenway Sports Group
In 2011, LeBron James partnered with Fenway Sports Group, becoming a minority stakeholder in Liverpool Football Club, and made Fenway Sports Group the sole global marketer of his rights.
2011: James's Off-Season Training and Miami's Strong Start
During the 2011 NBA lockout, LeBron James focused on improving his post-up game by training with Hakeem Olajuwon. Motivated by the Heat's loss to the Mavericks in the Finals, James shed his villain persona and rediscovered his love for the game. These factors contributed to Miami's franchise-best 18-6 start in the 2011-2012 season.
2011: James Receives NFL Offers during NBA Lockout
During the 2011 NBA lockout, LeBron James received offers to play professional football from both the Dallas Cowboys and the Seattle Seahawks. Intrigued by the possibility, he seriously considered these offers and even commenced training for a potential transition to the NFL.
2012: Option to Swap Picks
As part of LeBron James's sign-and-trade deal in 2010, the Cavaliers were given the option to swap first-round picks with the Heat in 2012.
2012: ESPN Rankings
In 2012, ESPN ranked LeBron James's 48-point performance in Game 5 of the 2006–2007 Eastern Conference Finals as the fourth greatest in modern NBA playoff history.
2012: James's MVP Season and Miami's Dominant Run
In 2012, LeBron James had an exceptional season, earning his third MVP award. He averaged 27.1 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game while shooting 53 percent from the field. The Miami Heat achieved a franchise-best and league-best 18-6 record, showcasing their dominance throughout the season.
2012: James Leads Team USA to Olympic Gold
In 2012, LeBron James led Team USA to a gold medal at the London Olympics, achieving a historic triple-double against Australia and becoming the all-time leading scorer in U.S. men's basketball history.
2012: James Chooses Rich Paul as His Agent
In 2012, LeBron James made a switch in representation, choosing Rich Paul of Klutch Sports as his new agent. This marked his departure from CAA.
2012: First NBA Championship and MVP
In 2012, LeBron James won his first NBA championship with the Miami Heat and was also named the Finals MVP, achieving a long-awaited personal goal and marking a peak in his career.
2012: James Invests in Blaze Pizza
In 2012, LeBron James, Maverick Carter, and Paul Wachter made a strategic investment of less than $1 million in Blaze Pizza, a fast-casual pizza chain based in Pasadena.
2012: James's "Month for the Ages" and the Heat's Historic Winning Streak
In February 2012, LeBron James had an extraordinary month, averaging 29.7 points and 7.8 assists while setting multiple shooting efficiency records. The Miami Heat embarked on a 27-game winning streak, the third longest in NBA history. Sports Illustrated hailed James's performance as a "month for the ages." Miami ended the season with a franchise-best and league-best 66-16 record, and James received his fourth MVP award, nearly winning it unanimously.
September 14, 2013: James Marries High School Sweetheart
LeBron James married his high school sweetheart, Savannah Brinson, on September 14, 2013, in San Diego, California.
2013: James's Career-High 61 Points and the Heat's Playoff Run
On March 3, 2013, LeBron James set a career-high and Miami Heat franchise record with 61 points against the Charlotte Bobcats. He also set records for most three-pointers made in a 60-point game and most points while wearing a mask. Despite the Heat using 20 different starting lineups due to injuries, James averaged 27.1 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 6.4 assists while shooting 56.7 percent. Miami reached their fourth consecutive Finals, a feat achieved by only four teams in NBA history, but lost to the San Antonio Spurs.
2013: Regaining Popularity
By 2013, James' image had largely recovered, and ESPN declared him the NBA's most popular player for the second time.
2013: Second NBA Championship and MVP
LeBron James achieved back-to-back NBA championships in 2013 with the Miami Heat, earning his second Finals MVP award, further solidifying his dominance in the league.
2013: Second Time on Time's 100 Most Influential People
In 2013, LeBron James was again included in Time's 100 most influential people, solidifying his status as a figure whose impact transcended the basketball court.
2013: LeBron James Becomes the Highest-Paid Basketball Player
In 2013, LeBron James surpassed Kobe Bryant to become the highest-paid basketball player globally, earning $56.5 million.
June 25, 2014: James's Return to Cleveland
On June 25, 2014, LeBron James opted out of his contract with the Miami Heat and became a free agent. In a Sports Illustrated essay on July 11, he announced his return to the Cleveland Cavaliers, a decision met with positive reception. He officially signed with the Cavaliers on July 12. The team had struggled in his absence, finishing with a league-worst 97-215 record in the four seasons prior.
2014: Lakers' Playoff Drought
The Los Angeles Lakers had not reached the playoffs since 2014, marking a period of struggle for the franchise.
2014: James's Defensive Peak
LeBron James's peak defensive years spanned from 2009 to 2014.
2014: Most Popular Male Athlete in America
LeBron James' popularity reached a new height in 2014 as he was recognized as the most popular male athlete in America by the Harris Poll.
2014: James's Injury and the Cavaliers' Playoff Run
In the 2014-2015 season, LeBron James faced the longest stretch of missed games in his career due to knee and back strains, playing only 69 games. Despite this, he averaged 25.3 points, 6 rebounds, and 7.4 assists. The Cavaliers reached the NBA Finals, marking James's fifth consecutive Finals appearance. Injuries to Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love placed more responsibility on James. Although the Cavaliers lost to the Golden State Warriors, James was considered for the Finals MVP award.
2014: Speaking Out Against Donald Sterling's Racism
LeBron James used his platform to condemn the racist comments made by then-NBA owner Donald Sterling in 2014.
2014: Return to Cleveland Cavaliers
In 2014, LeBron James opted out of his contract with the Miami Heat and made the impactful decision to return to his hometown team, the Cleveland Cavaliers, signifying a new chapter in his career.
2014: James Advocates for Longer All-Star Break
In 2014, LeBron James, utilizing his influential position, successfully appealed to commissioner Adam Silver for an extension of the All-Star break, a change implemented the following season.
2014: James Experiences Severe Cramps, Inspires Future Business Venture
During the 2014 NBA Finals, LeBron James suffered from severe leg cramps. This experience later motivated him to co-found Ladder with Arnold Schwarzenegger in 2018. Ladder is a company that develops nutritional supplements aimed at helping athletes prevent and alleviate severe cramping.
2014: Analysts Note Regression in James's Defense
By 2014, analysts began observing a decline in LeBron James's defensive impact, attributed to reduced effort and age.
2014: Return to Cleveland Cavaliers
In 2014, LeBron James returned to the Cleveland Cavaliers, fulfilling a promise to bring success to his hometown team.
2014: LeBron James Profits from Beats Electronics Acquisition
In 2014, LeBron James made over $30 million when Apple acquired Beats Electronics, in which he had a stake from promoting the headphones.
2014: First Round Playoff Loss and Scoring Output
In 2014, LeBron James and the Miami Heat faced the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals. James averaged 22.8 points during the series, marking his lowest scoring average in a playoff series up to that point in his career. This series highlighted the challenges faced by even the most dominant players.
February 13, 2015: James Elected NBPA Vice President
On February 13, 2015, LeBron James achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first vice president of the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA).
November 2015: James Purchases Brentwood Mansion
In November 2015, James expanded his real estate portfolio by buying a 9,350-square-foot East Coast-style mansion in Brentwood, Los Angeles for approximately $21 million.
2015: James's Consistent Performance in a Challenging Season
During the 2015-2016 season, LeBron James faced off-court controversies, including the firing of Cavaliers coach David Blatt. Despite these distractions, Cleveland finished with the best record in the Eastern Conference. James averaged 25.3 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 6.8 assists while shooting 52 percent from the field.
2015: LeBron James' Acting and Uninterrupted Ventures
In 2015, LeBron James acted in Judd Apatow's film *Trainwreck* and secured funding for his digital video company, Uninterrupted, to expand athlete-created content.
2015: Scholarship Partnership with University of Akron
In 2015, LeBron James partnered with the University of Akron, committing to fund scholarships for up to 2,300 children, starting in 2021.
2015: LeBron James Ranked Among Highest-Earning Athletes
In 2015, LeBron James ranked as the sixth highest-earning sportsperson globally.
2015: James Experiences Age-Related Declines
In 2015, during his second stint with the Cavaliers, LeBron James began experiencing age-related declines in his scoring averages.
2015: Cleveland's Dominant Run to the Finals
In the 2015-2016 playoffs, the Cleveland Cavaliers comfortably advanced to the Finals, losing only two games. They faced the Golden State Warriors, who were coming off a record-setting 73-win regular season.
November 2016: LeBron James Endorses Hillary Clinton
In November 2016, LeBron James endorsed and campaigned for Hillary Clinton in the US presidential election.
2016: "Cleveland Hustles" Premieres on CNBC
LeBron James hosted "Cleveland Hustles," an unscripted series that premiered on CNBC in 2016. The show featured four aspiring entrepreneurs from Northern Ohio who received funding from James on the condition of revitalizing a neighborhood in Cleveland.
2016: First Championship with Cleveland Cavaliers
LeBron James led the Cleveland Cavaliers to their first NBA Championship in 2016, overcoming a 3-1 deficit in the Finals against the Golden State Warriors, fulfilling his promise to bring a championship to his hometown and solidifying his place as a basketball legend.
2016: A Season of Challenges and Triumphs for James and the Cavaliers
The 2016-2017 season was challenging for the Cavaliers, marked by injuries and unexpected losses. LeBron James later called it one of the "strangest" years of his career. After a loss to the New Orleans Pelicans in January, James publicly criticized the team's roster construction, drawing criticism himself. Despite the difficulties, the Cavaliers finished as the East's second seed.
2016: James's Shooting Regresses
In 2016, LeBron James's shooting temporarily regressed, marking a low point in his offensive efficiency.
2016: James Aims to Surpass Jordan
In 2016, LeBron James admitted in a Sports Illustrated interview that his ambition was to surpass Michael Jordan as the greatest basketball player of all time.
2016: LeBron James Ranks Third Among Highest-Earning Athletes
In 2016, LeBron James ranked as the third highest-earning sportsperson globally, following Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
2016: James Signs Three-Year Deal with Cavaliers, Becomes Highest-Paid Player
In 2016, LeBron James rejoined the Cleveland Cavaliers on a three-year contract. This agreement marked a significant milestone in his career, as it made him the highest-paid player in the NBA for the first time.
2016: Donation to Smithsonian Museum
In 2016, LeBron James demonstrated his commitment to preserving history and culture by donating $2.5 million to the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture.
November 2017: Akron School Board Approves I Promise School
In November 2017, the Akron School Board gave the green light to the creation of the I Promise School, a public elementary school designed to support at-risk students.
December 2017: Another Brentwood Acquisition
Adding to his property portfolio, James acquired another residence in Brentwood in December 2017, this time a mansion costing $23 million.
2017: James's Historic Playoff Performances and Another Finals Matchup with the Warriors
In 2017, LeBron James led the Cavaliers to a third consecutive NBA Finals appearance, but they were defeated by the Golden State Warriors, who had added Kevin Durant to their roster. During the playoffs, James made history by becoming the all-time leading scorer in the postseason. He also achieved the first triple-double average in the Finals.
2017: Third Time on Time's 100 Most Influential People
LeBron James' continued influence earned him his third appearance on Time's 100 most influential people list in 2017, further showcasing his global impact.
2017: James Executive Produces "The Carter Effect" Documentary
In 2017, LeBron James, Maverick Carter, rapper Drake, and Future the Prince executive produced "The Carter Effect," a 60-minute documentary about Vince Carter. The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival.
2017: James' Blaze Pizza Investment Grows Significantly
By 2017, LeBron James's initial investment in Blaze Pizza had grown substantially to $25 million. James also took on the role of a spokesperson for the company, appearing in advertisements after ending his endorsement deal with McDonald's.
2017: J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award
In recognition of his exceptional dedication to community service, LeBron James received the prestigious J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award from the NBA in 2017.
2017: Cleveland Cavaliers Roster Overhaul and Season Performance
In 2017, the Cleveland Cavaliers underwent significant roster changes, including trading Kyrie Irving. Despite a slow start, they rebounded with an impressive winning streak in December, fueled by LeBron James's outstanding performance, including a 57-point game against the Wizards. However, inconsistency followed, leading to criticism of James's efforts. The team saw a resurgence after trades in February, with James achieving milestones such as an NBA record for consecutive games scoring in double digits.
2017: LeBron James Speaks Out Against Racism
In 2017, following a racist incident at his home, LeBron James spoke about the challenges of being Black in America and questioned the "Make America Great Again" slogan after the Charlottesville rally.
February 2018: James Enters House Party Franchise, Faces Criticism from Laura Ingraham, and Launches "Shut Up and Dribble"
In February 2018, LeBron James's production company announced its involvement in a new "House Party" film. That same month, Fox News host Laura Ingraham sparked controversy by telling James to "shut up and dribble" in response to his political views. This event inspired James to create the documentary series "Shut Up and Dribble," exploring the evolving role of athletes in contemporary sociopolitical discourse.
February 2018: The Ringer's "LeBron vs. Jordan" Week
In February 2018, The Ringer, a sports and pop culture website, dedicated a full week to comparing LeBron James and Michael Jordan, with editor Bill Simmons ultimately concluding that Jordan remained superior.
June 29, 2018: LeBron James Joins the Los Angeles Lakers
On June 29, 2018, LeBron James opted out of his contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers and became a free agent. He subsequently signed with the Los Angeles Lakers, a move driven by personal desire rather than pursuit of championships or fulfilling promises. This decision received mixed reactions, with some questioning the choice of Los Angeles.
July 30, 2018: I Promise School Opens
The I Promise School, a public elementary school established through a partnership between the LeBron James Family Foundation and the Akron Public Schools, was officially opened on July 30, 2018.
2018: LeBron James's First Season with the Lakers
In 2018, LeBron James joined the Los Angeles Lakers with high expectations. However, the team faced challenges finding a winning formula. James delivered strong performances, including a 51-point game against Miami Heat. A groin injury, a first for James in his career, caused him to miss a significant number of games, leading to the Lakers missing the playoffs for the first time in James's career since 2005.
2018: NBA All-Star Game Format Change
In 2018, the NBA All-Star Game format was changed. This format change would later become relevant as LeBron James, leading Team LeBron, maintained an undefeated record (5–0) as a captain until his first loss in 2023 under this new format.
2018: Move to the Los Angeles Lakers
LeBron James exercised his contract option to leave the Cleveland Cavaliers and signed with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2018, signifying another significant change in his career trajectory.
2018: End of First NBA Finals Appearance Streak
LeBron James' impressive streak of eight straight NBA Finals appearances came to an end in 2018, marking a turning point in his career.
2018: LeBron James' Feud with Donald Trump
In 2018, LeBron James' feud with Donald Trump escalated after he called Trump a "bum" and accused him of dividing the country with sports. Trump responded with a tweet criticizing James.
February 2019: James Executive Produces 2 Chainz's Album "Rap or Go to the League"
In February 2019, LeBron James took on the role of executive producer for rapper 2 Chainz's album "Rap or Go to the League." The album, released under Def Jam Recordings, centered on themes of Black excellence, emphasizing the significance of education and entrepreneurship as paths to success, challenging the stereotype that success for Black individuals is limited to becoming athletes or musicians.
2019: Fourth Time on Time's 100 Most Influential People
LeBron James was named to Time's 100 most influential people list for the fourth time in 2019, solidifying his place as one of the most impactful athletes of his generation.
2019: LeBron James Misses Playoffs, Lakers Eliminated
In 2019, LeBron James and the Lakers missed the playoffs for the first time since James joined the team. This marked the fourth time in his career that he did not participate in the playoffs. The Lakers were eliminated from both playoff and play-in contention.
2019: Lakers' Resurgence with Anthony Davis
In 2019, the Los Angeles Lakers underwent significant changes, hiring Frank Vogel as coach and trading for Anthony Davis. James adapted his playing style, focusing on point guard duties and improved defense, leading the team to a strong start, matching a franchise record. James achieved milestones, passing Kobe Bryant on the all-time scoring list and leading the team to victories against top teams before the COVID-19 pandemic interrupted the season. The season resumed in a bubble environment, where James finished as the league leader in assists for the first time.
2019: LeBron James' Controversial Statement on Hong Kong Protests
In 2019, LeBron James made a controversial statement about Daryl Morey's tweet supporting the pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong, saying Morey was "misinformed", which drew backlash from protesters.
2019: James' "Taco Tuesday" Trademark Request Denied
During the 2019 NBA off-season, LeBron James attempted to trademark the phrase "Taco Tuesday" through a shell company. His intention was to use the trademark for various purposes, including downloadable audio/visual content, podcasts, social media, online marketing, and entertainment services, inspired by his family's tradition of having tacos on Tuesdays, which he frequently shared on Instagram. However, the United States Patent and Trademark Office rejected his application, deeming "Taco Tuesday" a common phrase widely used by various sources and not eligible for trademark protection.
July 2020: James' Rookie Card Sets Record
In July 2020, two of LeBron James' rookie cards set records at auction, one becoming the most expensive modern-day sports card at $1.8 million until a Mike Trout card surpassed it the following month.
August 19, 2020: LeBron James Supports Joe Biden and Kamala Harris
On August 19, 2020, LeBron James announced his support for the Joe Biden and Kamala Harris presidential campaign, encouraged voter participation in the African American community, and highlighted concerns about voter suppression.
August 27, 2020: James and Lakers Boycott Playoffs
LeBron James and his Los Angeles Lakers teammates, along with the Milwaukee Bucks, initiated a boycott of the 2020 NBA playoffs on August 27, 2020, to protest the shooting of Jacob Blake.
November 2020: James Invests in Lobos 1707 Tequila and Mezcal Company
In November 2020, LeBron James became an angel investor in Lobos 1707, a company specializing in tequila and mezcal.
December 22, 2020: Start of a Unique Season
The 2020-2021 NBA season began on December 22, 2020, under unique circumstances due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The shortened season, with 72 games for each team, commenced after the shortest offseason in NBA history.
2020: Fourth NBA Championship and Finals MVP
LeBron James won his fourth NBA Championship and Finals MVP award in 2020 with the Los Angeles Lakers, showcasing his sustained excellence and ability to adapt to new teams and challenges.
December 31, 2020: LeBron James's Scoring Streak
On December 31, 2020, LeBron James reached a historic milestone by becoming the first player in NBA history to score 10 or more points in 1,000 consecutive games. This achievement highlighted his remarkable consistency and longevity.
2020: Backlash from Hong Kong Protests Continues
The backlash from LeBron James' statement about the Hong Kong protests continued into 2020.
March 2021: James Supports Renee Montgomery's Acquisition of Atlanta Dream, Joins Fenway Sports Group
In March 2021, LeBron James played a significant role in supporting WNBA player Renee Montgomery's successful bid to acquire the Atlanta Dream. James's involvement stemmed from his disagreement with comments made by the team's previous owner, Republican U.S. Senator Kelly Loeffler, regarding the Black Lives Matter movement. Additionally, in 2021, James partnered with Fenway Sports Group, becoming a part-owner of several sports entities, including the Boston Red Sox, New England Sports Network, RFK Racing, and Liverpool F.C. This investment made James and his business partner Maverick Carter the first Black partners in Fenway Sports Group. Notably, James already held a two percent individual stake in Liverpool F.C. before this partnership.
2021: Ejection and Suspension
In 2021, during a game against the Detroit Pistons, LeBron James was ejected for the second time in his career after an altercation with Isaiah Stewart. This incident resulted in a one-game suspension, highlighting the consequences of on-court confrontations.
2021: 'Space Jam: A New Legacy' Premiere
LeBron James starred in and produced 'Space Jam: A New Legacy' in 2021, a continuation of the popular 'Space Jam' franchise, demonstrating his expanding influence in entertainment and popular culture.
2021: University of Akron Scholarship Program Begins
The scholarship program, a collaborative effort between LeBron James and the University of Akron, was launched in 2021, providing educational opportunities for 2,300 children.
2021: Reaching Scoring Milestones and Facing Injury
In 2021, LeBron James reached significant scoring milestones, becoming the third player in NBA history to surpass 35,000 career points. This achievement solidified his place among the NBA's all-time greats. However, he also faced an ankle injury during a game against the Atlanta Hawks, although he managed to maintain his scoring streak before exiting the game. The Lakers, while initially performing well, experienced challenges during Anthony Davis and James's absences due to injuries.
February 2022: Bill Maher Criticizes LeBron James
In February 2022, political commentator Bill Maher called out LeBron James for not taking a critical stance towards the Chinese government's human rights abuses.
February 26, 2022: Consistent Scoring and Triple-Double Milestone
From December 19, 2021, to February 26, 2022, LeBron James demonstrated remarkable consistency by scoring 25 or more points in 23 consecutive games. This period also saw him achieve his 100th career triple-double, further solidifying his status as an all-around player.
June 2022: James Launches Hana Kuma Production Company with Naomi Osaka
In June 2022, LeBron James partnered with professional tennis player Naomi Osaka and Maverick Carter's SpringHill Company to launch a new media venture called Hana Kuma. The company, whose name translates to "flower" and "bear" in Japanese, focuses on production and content creation.
August 2022: James and Drake Invest in A.C. Milan
In August 2022, LeBron James and Canadian musician Drake joined forces to become part-owners of the Italian football club A.C. Milan.
August 18, 2022: LeBron James Signs Lucrative Contract Extension
On August 18, 2022, LeBron James re-signed with the Los Angeles Lakers, securing a two-year, $97.1 million contract extension. This deal made him the highest-paid NBA athlete in history with total career earnings exceeding $528.9 million, surpassing Kevin Durant.
2022: LeBron James's Accomplishments in 2022
Throughout 2022, LeBron James achieved numerous milestones, including becoming the second player in NBA history to score 40 points with zero turnovers at age 35 or older. He achieved the oldest player to average over 25 points a game and secured his spot as the first player to have at least 30,000 career points, 10,000 career rebounds, and 9,000 career assists. He also surpassed Oscar Robertson for 4th all-time free throws made and Alvin Robertson for 10th all-time in career steals. At the 2022 NBA All-Star Game, James received his 18th All-Star selection and led his team to its fifth consecutive All-Star win, hitting the game-winning shot.
2022: James Suffers Foot Injury
On February 26, 2022, LeBron James sustained a right foot injury during a game against the Dallas Mavericks, but was able to finish the game. After further examination, he was diagnosed with a tendon injury and was sidelined for several weeks.
2022: James Condemns Overturning of Roe v. Wade
LeBron James publicly denounced the Supreme Court's decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, which overturned Roe v. Wade, in 2022.
2022: Crypto.com NFT Airdrop and Charity Partnership
Following the Super Bowl ad, Crypto.com launched an NFT airdrop featuring LeBron James. Also in 2022, the LeBron James Family Foundation partnered with Crypto.com to educate underserved communities in Akron about blockchain and Web3 tools.
2022: LeBron James in Crypto.com Super Bowl Ad
During Super Bowl 56 in 2022, LeBron James starred in a Crypto.com advertisement featuring a conversation with a younger CGI version of himself, offering advice about the future.
January 2, 2023: LeBron James's Back-to-Back 40-Point Games at 38
On January 2, 2023, LeBron James joined Michael Jordan as one of only two players in NBA history to achieve back-to-back 40-point games at the age of 38 or older. This added another accomplishment to James's already impressive list of achievements.
February 7, 2023: All-Time Leading Scorer
On February 7, 2023, LeBron James achieved a historic milestone by surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to become the NBA's all-time leading scorer, solidifying his legacy as one of basketball's greatest players.
April 11, 2023: Publication of LeBron James' Biography
LeBron James' biography, authored by Jeff Benedict, was published on April 11, 2023, after three years of research and over 250 interviews.
May 2023: James's Career Accomplishments
As of May 2023, LeBron James boasts a remarkable career, including numerous All-NBA Team selections, four MVP awards, and four Finals MVP awards.
May 2023: LeBron James Becomes First Active NBA Player Billionaire
In May 2023, LeBron James became the first active NBA player to achieve billionaire status.
June 2023: James Becomes Most Followed Basketball Player on Instagram
As of June 2023, LeBron James became the most followed basketball player on Instagram, amassing over 155 million followers.
October 2023: LeBron James Voices Support for Israel
In October 2023, LeBron James voiced his support for Israel on Instagram in response to the 2023 Israel–Hamas war, but received backlash for omitting mention of the Palestinians affected by the crisis.
2023: James Achieves Several Milestones and Leads Lakers to Conference Finals
During the 2023 season, LeBron James achieved numerous milestones. He tied Jason Kidd for fourth place on the all-time career triple-doubles list, became the oldest player in NBA history to average at least 25 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists in a season, recorded his first 20-20 game in the playoffs, surpassed Derek Fisher for the most all-time playoff series wins, and led the Lakers to the Western Conference finals.
2023: James Becomes Oldest Player in the League, Sets Records for 30-Point Games, Triple-Doubles, and Steals
Entering the 2023-24 season, LeBron James became the oldest player in the league. He went on to surpass Karl Malone for the most 30-point games by any player since turning 35, became the second-oldest player to record a triple-double, tied Vince Carter for seventh on the all-time 3-pointers list, and passed Clyde Drexler for eighth on the all-time steals list.
2023: Inaugural NBA Cup Win
LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers won the first ever NBA Cup in 2023, adding a unique trophy to James' already illustrious career.
2023: Bronny James, a McDonald's All-American
Twenty years after his father, Bronny James, LeBron James' son, was selected as a McDonald's All-American in 2023, showcasing his basketball talent.
2023: James's Career Continues
As of 2023, LeBron James continues to play in the NBA, showcasing his versatility and athleticism.
January 25, 2024: James Breaks Record for Most All-Star Selections
On January 25, 2024, LeBron James was named an All-Star starter for the 20th time, breaking Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's record for the most All-Star selections in NBA history.
March 2024: James and JJ Redick Launch "Mind the Game" Podcast
March 2024 marked the launch of "Mind the Game," a podcast hosted by LeBron James and JJ Redick. The podcast is dedicated to insightful discussions about basketball.