LeBron James wipes away tears during an epic spot for the Cavs
The prodigal son came home on Wednesday as LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers visited the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Arena.
It’s an emotional moment for James every time he returns to his hometown. He treats being from Akron, Ohio as a badge of honor, knowing that he has reshaped not only a franchise but an entire community.
The Cavaliers played a tribute video during a timeout in the first half, leaving James in tears as he watched from the bench.
LeBron James was soaking it all in while watching his Cavs tribute video 🙂
(via @NBA_Philippines)pic.twitter.com/j4VkDUPbEl
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) January 29, 2026
Tribute video featured some of James’ memorable milestones in Cleveland, including scoring 25 straight points in Game 5 of the 2007 conference finals and winning the 2016 championship.
This photo of LeBron James after watching his tribute video 🥹
(📸: @Cavs) https://t.co/R4kfozHNsG pic.twitter.com/vUb0UGdCNR
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) January 29, 2026
He received deep anger from fans in Cleveland when he left in 2010 to join the Miami Heat. He became a villain. Upon his return in 2014, he knew he had unfinished business. He slowly regained the trust of the people. When he finally brought home a hard-earned championship in Cleveland, it was transcendent. He fulfilled his promise.
The four-time champion always looked back on his time with the Cavaliers, knowing it was a big part of his long journey. Some even suggest it James should leave Los Angeles and retire in Cleveland for the perfect full circle of his legendary career. Certainly, that would be something else.
It may be with the purple and gold, but surely James’ heart will always have room for Cleveland.
The Lakers, who are on a five-game road trip, are looking for their third straight win.
2026-01-29 01:24:00
