The heartfelt moment occurred during a stoppage in play during the first quarter of the Lakers’ 129-99 loss to the Cavaliers at Rocket Arena. Lakers forward LeBron James reacts on the bench during a video tribute shown on the scoreboard during a timeout in the first quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Arena on Jan. 28, 2026. James spent 11 of his 23 years in the NBA with the Cavaliers over two stints. Questions have continued this season about what James’ future holds for him in LA and in the NBA. LeBron Jamesof the Los Angeles Lakers looks on before the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on January 28, 2026 at Rocket Arena in Cleveland, Ohio.