a biography about lebron james

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LeBron James

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LeBron James is an American professional basketball player who is widely considered one of the greatest all-around basketball players of all time. James has won four National Basketball Association championships with three different teams, and he has been named NBA MVP four times. In 2023 he became the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, and in 2024 he became the first NBA player to score 40,000 points. James has also won gold medals at the Olympics , in 2008 and 2012 .

When did LeBron James start playing basketball?

LeBron James, who was born in 1984 in Akron , Ohio, became a locally known basketball prodigy while in elementary school. James led Akron’s St. Vincent–St. Mary High School to three state championships in four years. He was named Ohio’s Mr. Basketball—the high-school player of the year—three times during 2001–03.

LeBron James was selected first overall in the 2003 National Basketball Association draft by the Cleveland Cavaliers . He played for the Cavaliers through the end of the 2009–10 season. He then signed with the Miami Heat but returned to the Cavaliers in 2014. James joined the Los Angeles Lakers in 2018. He won NBA championships with all three teams.

How many NBA championships has LeBron James won?

LeBron James has won four National Basketball Association championships. He won his first two championships with the Miami Heat in 2012 and 2013. He won a third championship with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2016. His fourth championship came with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2020.

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LeBron James (born December 30, 1984, Akron , Ohio , U.S.) is an American professional basketball player who is widely considered one of the greatest all-around players of all time and who won National Basketball Association (NBA) championships with the Miami Heat (2012 and 2013), the Cleveland Cavaliers (2016), and the Los Angeles Lakers (2020). In 2023 he became the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, breaking the record (38,387) previously held by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar . His dominance continued when in 2024, he recorded his 40,000 point scored.

Find out where he ranks in our list of the greatest basketball players .

Silhouette of hand holding sport torch behind the rings of an Olympic flag, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; February 3, 2015.

A locally known basketball prodigy since elementary school, James was named Ohio’s Mr. Basketball (high-school player of the year) three times while leading Akron’s St. Vincent–St. Mary High School to three Ohio state championships in his four years on the team. He became a national media sensation in his junior year after appearing on the cover of Sports Illustrated , where he was billed by the magazine as “The Chosen One.” James was the consensus national high-school player of the year in his senior season , and he was selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers with the first overall selection of the 2003 NBA draft. Additionally, he signed an unprecedented $90 million endorsement contract with the Nike shoe company before he ever played a professional game.

Despite the pressures brought on by these singular circumstances, James led the Cavaliers in scoring, steals, and minutes played over the course of the 2003–04 season, winning the league’s Rookie of the Year award in the process. A 6-foot 8-inch (2.03-metre) “point forward” who was as adept at bringing the ball down the court as at playing near the basket, James presented a unique challenge for opposing teams; his unmatched athleticism and well-muscled body would not have been out of place in the National Football League .

His game progressed over the following years. He was voted one of the starting forwards on the Eastern Conference All-Star team during his second season, and in his third season he led the Cavaliers to their first playoff berth in nine years. These accomplishments were exceeded during the 2006–07 season, when James guided Cleveland to the franchise’s first berth in the NBA finals. After the Cavaliers upset the favoured Detroit Pistons in the Eastern Conference finals, the Cavaliers were swept by the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA finals, but James’s impressive postseason play led many observers to place him among the very best players in the league. He led the NBA in scoring during the 2007–08 season and earned first team All-NBA honours, but the Cavaliers lost to the eventual champion Boston Celtics in a dramatic seven-game series in the Eastern Conference semifinals. James piloted the Cavaliers to a team-record 66 wins during the 2008–09 season, which helped to earn him the league’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. The following season James averaged nearly 30 points per game as he was again named MVP.

At the end of the 2009–10 season, James became arguably the most sought-after free agent in NBA history when his contract with the Cavaliers expired, and he began a prolonged courtship process with a number of teams that had in some cases been planning for his free agency for over two years. In an unprecedented hour-long television special, criticized by many for its undue grandiosity, James announced that he was signing with the Heat. He helped Miami reach the NBA finals in his first year with the team, but the Heat lost the championship to the Dallas Mavericks . In the 2011–12 season James averaged 27.1 points per game and won his third MVP award while helping Miami advance to its second consecutive NBA finals appearance. Backed by his stellar play—James was named the finals MVP—the Heat defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder to win the championship.

He had arguably his greatest individual season in 2012–13, as he averaged 26.8 points, 7.3 assists, and a career-high 8.0 rebounds per game while posting a .565 field-goal percentage, a remarkable rate of made shots for someone who so frequently played away from the basket. James also helped Miami win 27 consecutive games that season (the second longest such streak in NBA history), and he was rewarded with his fourth league MVP award. In the following postseason, the Heat defeated the San Antonio Spurs in a seven-game series to win the NBA championship, and James was again named the finals MVP. He continued his stellar play in the following season, even increasing his shooting percentage by .002, and he again led the Heat to an appearance in the NBA finals. However, Miami lost that rematch with the Spurs in a five-game series.

After that finals loss, James opted out of his contract with the Heat, leaving an aging Miami roster, and—after a week of frenzied speculation among fans and media—he decided to return to Cleveland. Although his 25.3 points per game was James’s lowest scoring average since his rookie season, he nevertheless guided a young and inexperienced Cavaliers roster to the second best record in the Eastern Conference in 2014–15. In the following postseason he led an injury-laden Cleveland team to just two playoff losses en route to a berth in the NBA finals. There James had one of the greatest individual performances in finals history, averaging 35.8 points, 13.3 rebounds, and 8.8 assists per game while leading the undermanned Cavaliers to the franchise’s first two finals victories before ultimately losing a six-game series to the Golden State Warriors .

James had another strong regular season in 2015–16 but, once again, truly shined in the playoffs. He led the Cavaliers to a rematch against the Warriors, who had set a league record with 73 wins during the regular season, in the NBA finals. There the Cavaliers became the first team to come back from a 3–1 finals deficit to capture the first title in franchise history and end a 52-year title drought for Cleveland professional sports teams. James averaged 29.7 points, 11.3 rebounds, 8.9 assists, 2.6 steals, and 2.3 blocks per game in the finals—becoming the first person to lead all five statistical categories for players on both teams in the finals—and was unanimously named finals MVP.

In 2016–17 James had arguably his best regular season by setting career highs with averages of 8.7 assists and 8.6 rebounds per game while still scoring 26.4 points per game. He sustained his excellence in the Eastern Conference playoffs, scoring 32.5 points per game (which included his 5,988th career postseason point, breaking Michael Jordan ’s all-time NBA playoff scoring record) while leading the Cavaliers to a third consecutive match-up against the Warriors in the NBA finals. There Cleveland could not overcome the team James referred to as a “juggernaut,” losing to the Warriors in five games despite James becoming the first player in NBA history to average a triple-double over the course of the finals (with 33.6 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists per game).

In 2017–18 he played a full 82-game regular season for the first time in his career and led the NBA in minutes played per game (36.9) while averaging 27.5 points, 8.6 rebounds, and a new career-high 9.1 assists per game. James again excelled in the following playoffs, scoring more than 40 points seven times in the team’s 18 Eastern Conference postseason games (which included two seven-game series) to lead the Cavaliers to their fourth straight NBA finals series against the Warriors. He continued his strong individual play in the finals, but it was not enough to overcome Golden State’s overwhelming talent advantage, and the Warriors swept the series.

In the following off-season, James, a free agent, joined the Los Angeles Lakers. He continued to play at a high level, averaging 27.4 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 8.3 assists per game, but he missed significant playing time because of an injury (a strained groin) for the first time in his career. The Lakers struggled in his absence and ultimately finished the 2018–19 season with a 37–45 record, ending James’s personal playoff streak at 13 seasons. The following season was disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic , which caused a four-month suspension. Play resumed in July 2020 with a shortened schedule, and the Lakers ultimately defeated the Miami Heat to claim the franchise’s 17th NBA title. James’s dominating performance—he averaged 29.8 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 8.5 assists per game—earned him his fourth finals MVP award.

In addition to his achievements in the NBA, James was a member of the U.S. men’s Olympic basketball teams that won the bronze medal at the 2004 Games, the gold medal at the 2008 Games , and the gold at the 2012 Games . Off the court, James occasionally acted, notably appearing as himself in Judd Apatow ’s comedy Trainwreck (2015). In 2021 he appeared in the live-action/animated Space Jam: A New Legacy .

James also published a memoir, Shooting Stars (2009; cowritten with Buzz Bissinger), that chronicles his years as a high-school standout .

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LeBron JAMES

When all is said and done, LeBron James will be regarded as one of the greatest NBA and basketball players of all time. The debate on whether he is the best has raged on among basketball fans, with arguments that could sway in either direction.

Born in Akron, Ohio, LeBron Raymone James attended St. Vincent-St. Mary High School in his hometown. There, he led his team to multiple state championships and earned the title of National Player of the Year during his senior year.

LeBron James' NBA Debut: A Phenom Takes Center Stage in Cleveland

Following his illustrious high school career, James was selected as the first overall pick in the 2003 NBA draft by the Cleveland Cavaliers. Wearing the iconic 23 jersey, he soon claimed the Rookie of the Year award after his first full season and represented the USA, winning a bronze medal during his debut Olympic Games in Athens in the summer of 2004.

The 6-ft-9-inch (2.06m) athlete rapidly established himself as one of the premier players in the NBA after his initial Olympic appearance. During an impressive seven-season stint with the Cavaliers (with an average of 78 games/season), the small forward amassed numerous individual accolades, including an NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, although the coveted championship eluded him.

LeBron James: A 20-Year NBA Legacy and Ascension to All-Time Leading Scorer

He would later achieve that elusive feat after his highly publicised decision to join the Miami Heat in 2010, an announcement made through the infamous "The Decision" TV show. James went on to win two NBA championships and earned two more NBA MVP awards during his four-year tenure with the Heat.

LeBron's list of achievements continued internationally as he led the USA team to a gold medal in the Beijing 2008 Olympics before repeating the feat at the London 2012 Games.

In 2016, he made a triumphant return to the Cavaliers , where he played a pivotal role in securing the franchise's first championship in its history. James then signed with the Los Angeles Lakers as a free agent in 2018 and won the championship in his third season, marking his fourth NBA title.

The father of three achieved another milestone in February 2023 when he surpassed the legendary Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's 38,387 total points to become the all-time leading scorer in NBA history. He now has 38,652 regular season points after the 2022/23 season, his 20th in the NBA .

LeBron James is renowned not only for his basketball prowess but also for his philanthropic efforts and activism. He founded the LeBron James Family Foundation, dedicated to various charitable initiatives, particularly in the realms of education and youth programs.

As his illustrious career approaches its twilight years, LeBron, who turned 39 in December 2023, may participate in the 2024 Paris Games, potentially marking his "last dance" in the Olympic world and his first appearance since 2012.

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.

Lebron James is ready for Paris | Olympic Games Paris 2024

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Athlete Olympic Results Content

LeBron James Olympics timeline: Medals, stats, records and more to know about Lakers star's USA Basketball history

LeBron James is set to play in the Olympics for the first time in 12 years.

James has represented Team USA in the Olympics three previous times in his 22-year professional career. His first appearance came when he was a 19-year-old with one year of NBA experience and his latest will come when he is a 39-year-old with 21 years of NBA experience and a son who is also playing in the league .

As James looks to add another Olympic medal in 2024, here's a look at what he has accomplished throughout his international career. From a letdown in 2004 to the program's redemption in the following two Olympic games, James stands to build upon an impressive Olympic career when he takes the floor in Paris.

MORE: Ranking all 12 players on USA Olympics basketball roster

How many Olympic medals has LeBron James won?

After winning Rookie of the Year for the 2003-04 season, James was the youngest member of the 12-man roster representing Team USA in Athens. While complete with star power, the 2004 USA Olympic team came up short of the gold, setting up a revival of the program.

With the rest of the world catching up to the United States' dominance, James was a key member of two of the most important USA national teams.

In 2008, James starred on the "Redeem Team," which went undefeated on the path to gold.

In 2012, James was named MVP of the NBA season, then won his first NBA championship and his second Olympic gold medal. He'll look to add a third gold in 2024.


2004	19	Bronze
2008	23	Gold
2012	27	Gold
2024	39	—

MORE: Why Joel Embiid is playing for Team USA at the 2024 Olympics

LeBron James Olympic stats

James' relatively meager numbers during his Olympic debut drag down his career averages.

In 2004, James averaged just 5.4 points and 1.0 rebounds in 11.5 minutes per game. He nearly tripled all of his averages in 2008.


11.5	24.8	24.9	20.4
5.4	15.5	13.3	11.4
1.0	5.3	5.6	4.0
1.6	3.8	5.6	3.7
0.8	2.4	1.4	1.5
0.0	1.0	0.3	0.4
1.1	2.1	1.0	1.4
59.4	60.2	60.3	60.1
30.0	46.4	30.0	37.9
100.0	45.8	75.0	59.5

MORE: What LeBron James has said about his retirement plans

LeBron James Team USA Olympic records

James ranks first in Olympic assists for Team USA and second all-time in Olympic games played. He is seven games shy of all-time leader Carmelo Anthony. James could surpass Anthony by playing in eight games in 2024.

24 games played (T–2nd)
273 points (3rd)
95 rebounds (4th)
88 assists (1st)
36 steals (3rd)
22 3-pointers (3rd)

James can also pass Chris Paul (38) for second place in steals and has an outside shot at catching all-time leader Michael Jordan (49).

Gilbert McGregor is an NBA content producer for The Sporting News.

NBA History: LeBron James Biography, Championships, Stats, & Facts

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LeBron James, the basketball luminary, is again dazzling fans and critics alike in the 2024 season with his extraordinary prowess and leadership on the court for the Los Angeles Lakers. His performances reinforce his status in the pantheon of basketball greats and underscore his relentless pursuit of excellence.

Beyond the hardwood, LeBron’s leadership influence is indispensable to the Lakers’ locker room, where he plays a pivotal role in guiding and inspiring his teammates. As the 2024 playoffs draw near, the spotlight intensifies on LeBron’s ability to steer his team through the challenges ahead. His career is a testament to what it means to embody excellence, commitment, and tenacity in the face of the NBA’s rigorous demands. Continue as we delve into the ongoing saga of LeBron’s illustrious career and the Lakers’ journey in the season.

LeBron James Early Life

Akron, Ohio, begins the story of LeBron James, born on December 30, 1984. Demonstrating a natural aptitude for basketball from an early age, James attended St. Vincent-St. Mary High School, where his exceptional talent on the court began to draw nationwide attention. Throughout his high school career, James accumulated impressive wins and personal achievements, bolstered by the unwavering support of his mother, Gloria James, and his dedicated coaches. This period in Akron would eventually serve as the bedrock for his future successes in professional basketball.

Professional Career Beginnings

In a bold move that would set the stage for a legendary NBA career, LeBron James leaped professional basketball directly after high school, foregoing the college basketball circuit. Selected as the first overall pick by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2003 NBA Draft, James quickly made his mark by securing the Rookie of the Year award. His initial tenure with the Cavaliers was marked by record-setting performances and significant team achievements, heralding the rise of one of the most illustrious figures in NBA history.

Signing with the Los Angeles Lakers

In a monumental shift in his illustrious career, LeBron James made headlines in 2018 by signing with the Los Angeles Lakers. His tenure with the Lakers has been nothing short of spectacular, culminating in an NBA championship in 2020 that further cemented his extraordinary legacy. LeBron’s profound influence on the Lakers is unmistakable, leading the team in scoring, playmaking, and playoff performance. His presence has underscored the transformative impact a single player can have on a team’s fortunes, particularly in pivotal moments.

James Playstyle: A Paradigm of Versatility

LeBron James’ approach to the game is distinctively versatile, blending raw power, strategic insight, and adaptability on the court. His ability to score through various methods, defend multiple positions, and possess a deep understanding of basketball dynamics sets him apart. LeBron’s physical attributes, notably his large hands and strength, enable him to dominate ball control and scoring opportunities. This unique playstyle has not only defined his career but also set a benchmark for aspiring players, showcasing the power of adaptability in a player’s arsenal.

Career Achievements and Legacy

Throughout his career, LeBron James’ statistics have solidified his standing among the NBA’s all-time greats. His comprehensive skill set is evident beyond scoring, encompassing assists, rebounds, and defensive capabilities. LeBron consistently elevates his game in critical situations, from regular-season matchups to the high stakes of NBA Finals appearances. His numerous MVP awards, finals records, and leadership in guiding his teams to championships illuminate an unmatched career trajectory. LeBron’s journey from a highly touted rookie to a pivotal force for the Los Angeles Lakers encapsulates his unwavering commitment and contribution to the sport.

Player Prop Betting Spotlight: LeBron James

LeBron James stands as a towering figure in the realm of sports betting. Enthusiasts frequently place wagers on his game-by-game performance, focusing on metrics such as points scored, rebounds secured, and assists distributed. Beyond individual matchups, bets also extend to his potential to achieve career milestones or clinch prestigious awards. The fluctuating odds associated with LeBron’s performances testify to his significant impact on basketball. Speculative bets might cover many outcomes, from hitting a specific number of three-pointers in a game to achieving a triple-double or even capturing another MVP title. According to PhilippinesCasinos.ph , given LeBron’s exceptional abilities, he consistently draws attention in the sports betting world, making every one of his games a focal point for betting enthusiasts.

A Legacy of Triumphs and Contributions

Significant achievements and championship victories distinguish LeBron James’s tenure in the NBA. His debut in the NBA Finals in 2007 heralded the beginning of an exceptional career. Throughout his journey, LeBron has secured four NBA championships, underlining his crucial influence across every team he’s been part of, particularly in vital playoff moments with the Lakers. His record in the NBA Finals reflects his prowess and ability to excel under pressure. Notably, his tenure with the Los Angeles Lakers, highlighted by the 2020 NBA championship win, remains a standout chapter in his decorated career. As we progress through 2024, LeBron continues adding to his scoring legacy, affirming his place among basketball’s elite scorers.

Financial Milestones and Beyond

In the 2023-24 season, LeBron James’s earnings reached $47,607,350, positioning him as one of the league’s top earners. With an option for a $51,415,938 salary in the 2024-25 season, LeBron’s financial influence mirrors the immense value of his talent and market appeal. Beyond his NBA earnings, LeBron’s endorsements, entrepreneurial ventures, and entertainment projects significantly enhance his net worth, showcasing a successful blend of athletic brilliance and savvy business acumen.

Beyond the Court: James’ Wider Impact

LeBron James’s influence extends well beyond the boundaries of basketball. His engagement in social justice, educational initiatives through the I PROMISE School , and ventures in the entertainment sector with his production company illustrate his commitment to leveraging his platform for societal benefit. His philanthropic efforts and advocacy position him as a paradigm of how athletes can use their visibility to foster social change and inspire future generations.

Personal Endeavors and Family Life

Away from the limelight, LeBron James cherishes his role as a family man, married to his high school love, Savannah, and a father to their three children. LeBron’s personal life, often shared with the public, emphasizes the value he places on family, remaining a steadfast priority amidst his bustling professional and business pursuits. His life off the court is a testament to the principles of loyalty, love, and the essence of a nurturing family foundation.