By Sunday 
LeBron Opens Up About His Bond with Anthony Davis After Lakers Ceremony
A Tribute to a Championship Brother
LeBron James has played alongside many greats, but few have formed a bond with him quite like Anthony Davis. After Davis returned to Los Angeles for the first time since his trade to the Dallas Mavericks, the Lakers honored their former star with a heartfelt tribute.
Following the game, LeBron reflected on what Davis has meant to him—not just as a teammate, but as a lifelong friend.
A Championship Connection
LeBron and Davis were more than just co-stars; they were a dominant duo that brought a championship back to the Lakers in 2020. Over six seasons together, they played 249 games, creating countless highlights and forming one of the most formidable partnerships in the NBA.
While their time as teammates has ended, James made it clear that their bond is unbreakable.
“We know what AD was for this franchise. What he did for the franchise from the moment we got him,” James said after the game. “To hold a Larry O’Brien trophy, to All-Star nods, winning the first inaugural In-Season Tournament, and many dominant nights not only in this building but on the road as well. Obviously, our friendship goes without saying. He’s one of my best friends. It was great to see him get that recognition in that moment.”
An Emotional Homecoming
Davis wasn’t able to suit up for Dallas due to an adductor strain, but that didn’t stop the Lakers from showing their appreciation. A special tribute video played before tip-off, highlighting Davis’ contributions to the franchise.
LeBron, always the ultimate competitor, still took a moment to celebrate his former teammate. As Davis soaked in the cheers from the Lakers faithful, James could be seen applauding, recognizing the impact Davis had during his time in Los Angeles.
The Game and What’s Next
The Lakers came away with a 107-99 victory, led by a vintage LeBron performance—27 points, 12 rebounds, and 11-17 shooting. Meanwhile, Luka Doncic put up a triple-double in his first game against the Lakers since the blockbuster trade that sent him to L.A.
While Davis couldn’t play, he is expected to return in March. That sets up an intriguing rematch on April 9 when the Lakers travel to Dallas. It will mark Luka Doncic’s first home game in a different jersey, and if Davis is back in the lineup, the matchup will carry even more weight.
For now, though, the night belonged to nostalgia—a reminder of the championship memories LeBron and Davis built together.