LeBron James created an unforgettable moment for a young fan during the Lakers-Heat game in Los Angeles. Spotting the little girl in tears of joy after seeing him up close while wearing his No. 23 jersey, the four-time NBA champion paused mid-game to wave at her.
After the Lakers’ 117-108 win over Miami, James made the night even more special by spending time with her on the court, as reported by the New York Post.
“A family friend sent me the clip at halftime,” James said, referring to the moment ESPN cameras captured the fan crying with her hand over her mouth. “And thank goodness that I actually looked at my phone at halftime or I wouldn’t have even seen the reaction when I waved to her in the first half. I waved to her and then got back to play.
READ ALSO: “I don’t believe in none of that” – Jamie Foxx dismisses Illuminati theories
“To have that type of connection with someone where they can have that type of reaction, I think that’s really what it’s all about. And I always try to be a role model and someone that kids can look up to me, men, women, whatever the case may be. I try and make them proud and want to come see me play — or if they’re not able to see me play, hopefully come of the things I do off the floor continue to inspire them. But was a super dope moment.”
James indicated that the moment was especially meaningful to him because he has a 10-year-old daughter, Zhuri, with his wife, Savannah.
“I have a little girl myself back home, so I made sure that I went over and chopped it up with her after the game,” James said. “I gave her one of my ‘I Promise’ bands and took a picture with her. I believe that was her sister as well, I’m not sure, but could be her sister or friend.
“Took a picture with them and I think it will be something that hopefully she will never forget. I’m happy to be a part of her life now. That small moment was such a bigger moment.”
James further joked that he hopes the young fan will boast about meeting him at school.
READ ALSO: A$AP Rocky to stand trial for alleged 2021 assault against A$AP Relli next week
“She got the upper hand on some of her classmates that might’ve said some bad things about her in the past,” James said. “So, they can’t say anything now.”
The Los Angeles Lakers snapped a three-game losing streak with a win over the Miami Heat on Wednesday, marking their first victory since two games were postponed due to the devastating wildfires in Southern California.
James led the effort with 22 points and nine assists but admitted the wildfires had mentally affected him after his family was evacuated. The Lakers are set to host the Brooklyn Nets on Friday.
