Last Updated on October 10, 2026 by Candida Lucia
LeBron James is an American professional basketball player for the Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA. Born on December 30, 1984, in Akron, Ohio, James is a four-time NBA champion, four-time Most Valuable Player, and the NBA’s all-time leading scorer. Beyond his extraordinary basketball career, his family has played an essential role in shaping his personal values, professional ambitions, and commitment to helping disadvantaged communities.
LeBron James’ wife is Savannah James, formerly Savannah Brinson, whom he married on September 14, 2013. The couple have three children: Bronny James, Bryce James, and Zhuri James. His mother is Gloria Marie James, who raised him as a single parent after giving birth at just 16 years old. His biological father has been identified in early reporting as Anthony McClelland, although he did not play an active role in LeBron’s upbringing. Unlike his children, who have grown up together, LeBron is an only child and has no publicly confirmed brothers or sisters.
Who Is LeBron James’ Wife?
LeBron James is married to Savannah James, an American entrepreneur, philanthropist, and media personality who has been his partner since their teenage years.
Born Savannah Racheal Brinson on August 27, 1986, in Akron, Ohio, she attended Buchtel High School, where she participated in cheerleading and softball.
Savannah grew up in a family with four siblings and developed an interest in fashion, business, and community activities during her youth.
Although she is internationally recognized as LeBron James’ wife, Savannah has established her own professional identity through business ventures, charitable initiatives, and media projects.
She previously operated a juice bar called The Juice Spot in Miami and participated in a furniture collection called Home Court by LeBron James.
She also founded the Women of Our Future mentorship initiative, which supports young women through educational programs and personal development opportunities.
In April 2024, Savannah launched the podcast Everybody’s Crazy alongside her longtime friend and business partner, April McDaniel.
The podcast features conversations about relationships, parenting, everyday challenges, and personal experiences.
In 2025, Savannah expanded her entrepreneurial activities by launching the skincare brand Reframe Beauty.
Despite her independent professional interests, she has remained closely involved in her husband’s basketball career and the upbringing of their three children.
How Did LeBron James Meet Savannah Brinson?
LeBron James and Savannah Brinson first met in 2002 while attending different high schools in Akron, Ohio.
At the time, LeBron was a rising basketball star at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School, while Savannah attended Buchtel High School.
According to interviews published by People and Harper’s Bazaar, the couple initially connected through mutual acquaintances.
LeBron invited Savannah to attend one of his basketball games, which marked the beginning of their relationship.
After the game, the two spent time together with friends before eventually going on their first official date at an Outback Steakhouse restaurant.
Savannah has recalled that she was initially unaware of the extraordinary attention LeBron was receiving as one of the country’s leading basketball prospects.
Their relationship developed before he became an NBA player, giving them a shared history that extended beyond fame and professional success.
When the Cleveland Cavaliers selected LeBron with the first overall pick in the 2003 NBA Draft, Savannah continued supporting him as his basketball career entered a new phase.
The couple welcomed their first child in 2004, followed by their second son in 2007.
They remained together through LeBron’s early NBA career, his move to the Miami Heat in 2010, and his eventual return to Cleveland.
When Did LeBron James and Savannah Get Married?
LeBron James proposed to Savannah Brinson on December 31, 2011, during a celebration marking his birthday and the approaching New Year.
After more than a decade together, the couple married on September 14, 2013, in San Diego, California.
The wedding took place at the Grand Del Mar resort and included approximately 200 guests, among them relatives, friends, and prominent figures from sports and entertainment.
The celebration featured musical performances and appearances by several celebrities, including Beyoncé and Jay-Z.
At the time of their wedding, LeBron and Savannah were already raising their two sons, Bronny and Bryce.
Their daughter, Zhuri, was born the following year.
In September 2026, the couple celebrated their 13th wedding anniversary, marking another milestone in a relationship that began when they were teenagers.
Throughout their marriage, LeBron has frequently acknowledged Savannah’s influence on his personal life and professional achievements.
In a 2025 appearance on Savannah’s Everybody’s Crazy podcast, the couple reflected on becoming parents at a young age and learning how to build a stable household together.
LeBron explained that his upbringing was very different from Savannah’s because she grew up in a two-parent household with siblings, while he was raised by his mother without brothers or sisters.
Their different childhood experiences helped shape their approach to marriage and raising children.
How Many Children Does LeBron James Have?
LeBron James and his wife Savannah have three children: two sons and one daughter.
Their children are LeBron Raymone “Bronny” James Jr., Bryce Maximus James, and Zhuri Nova James.
All three have grown up around professional basketball, regularly attending NBA games and appearing alongside their parents at important events.
Although Bronny and Bryce have pursued basketball careers, their younger sister Zhuri has developed her own interests in fashion, entertainment, and sports.
Bronny James – LeBron James’ Eldest Son
LeBron Raymone James Jr., commonly known as Bronny James, was born on October 6, 2004, in Akron, Ohio.
He is the eldest child of LeBron and Savannah James and the first member of the family’s second generation to reach the NBA.
Bronny developed an interest in basketball at a young age, frequently accompanying his father to games and training sessions.
He attended Sierra Canyon School in California, where he competed alongside several highly rated basketball prospects.
During his high school career, Bronny established himself as a talented guard and earned selection to the 2023 McDonald’s All-American Game.
He subsequently enrolled at the University of Southern California, where he played college basketball during the 2023–24 season.
In July 2023, Bronny experienced a cardiac arrest during a basketball workout at USC. After receiving medical treatment and undergoing rehabilitation, he returned to competitive basketball later that year.
Following his freshman college season, Bronny entered the 2024 NBA Draft.
The Los Angeles Lakers selected him with the 55th overall pick, creating an extraordinary opportunity for him to play alongside his father.
How LeBron James and Bronny Made NBA History
On October 22, 2024, LeBron and Bronny James became the first father and son to play together in an NBA regular-season game.
The historic moment occurred during the Los Angeles Lakers’ season opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Both players entered the game together during the second quarter, receiving an enthusiastic reception from the crowd.
The achievement fulfilled a dream LeBron had discussed publicly for several years.
LeBron and Bronny also attracted comparisons with baseball legends Ken Griffey Sr. and Ken Griffey Jr., who had previously become the first father-son duo to play together in Major League Baseball.
During their time together in Los Angeles, LeBron often discussed the emotional significance of sharing an NBA locker room with his eldest son.
In July 2026, LeBron moved to the Philadelphia 76ers, bringing their period as teammates to an end.
Bronny remained with the Los Angeles Lakers for the 2026–27 season, continuing his professional development independently of his father.
Their historic achievement remains one of the most memorable family milestones in NBA history.
Bryce James – LeBron James’ Second Son
Bryce Maximus James was born on June 14, 2007, in Ohio.
He is LeBron and Savannah’s second child and the younger brother of Bronny James.
Like his father and older brother, Bryce developed a strong interest in basketball during childhood.
He attended Sierra Canyon School in California and became recognized for his shooting ability and physical development.
Bryce competed in high school and AAU basketball, attracting attention from several NCAA Division I programs.
On January 1, 2025, he announced his commitment to the University of Arizona, choosing the Wildcats over other college basketball opportunities.
LeBron publicly celebrated the decision, expressing pride in his son’s achievement.
During his senior high school season, Bryce helped Sierra Canyon win the 2025 California Interscholastic Federation Division I state championship.
He subsequently joined the Arizona Wildcats basketball program for the 2025–26 season.
In February 2026, Arizona coach Tommy Lloyd confirmed that Bryce would redshirt his freshman season, allowing him to continue developing his skills while preserving his college eligibility.
As of October 2026, Bryce remains part of Arizona’s basketball program and is preparing for the 2026–27 college season.
Although comparisons with LeBron and Bronny are inevitable, Bryce is pursuing his own development and basketball identity.
Zhuri James – LeBron James’ Daughter
Zhuri Nova James was born on October 22, 2014, in Akron, Ohio.
She is the youngest child and only daughter of LeBron and Savannah James.
Her arrival brought a new dynamic to the family, which had previously consisted of LeBron, Savannah, and their two sons.
LeBron has frequently spoken about how becoming the father of a daughter influenced his perspective on parenting and relationships.
In public interviews, he has explained that Zhuri helped him become more attentive to the experiences and responsibilities associated with raising a young girl.
Despite her young age, Zhuri has attracted considerable public attention through appearances with her family and her own creative projects.
In 2019, the family launched a YouTube channel called All Things Zhuri, featuring videos about cooking, crafts, lifestyle activities, and other childhood interests.
The channel introduced fans to a different side of the James family, highlighting their relationship away from the basketball court.
Zhuri has also participated in volleyball and other sporting activities, occasionally attracting attention when LeBron and Savannah attend her games.
In addition, she has appeared alongside her parents and brothers at award ceremonies, movie premieres, and family celebrations.
While her brothers have pursued basketball careers, her parents have encouraged her to develop her own interests and personality.
Who Are LeBron James’ Parents?
LeBron James’ mother is Gloria Marie James, while his biological father was identified as Anthony McClelland in early reporting by ESPN.
LeBron was raised primarily by his mother in Akron, Ohio, after she became pregnant at 16 years old.
His father did not play an active role in his upbringing, leaving Gloria responsible for providing emotional and financial support.
The challenges they experienced during LeBron’s childhood eventually influenced his approach to fatherhood and his charitable work.
LeBron James’ Mother: Gloria Marie James
Gloria Marie James is LeBron James’ mother and one of the most influential people in his life.
She gave birth to LeBron on December 30, 1984, in Akron, Ohio, when she was just 16 years old.
Raising a child at such a young age presented significant challenges, particularly because she did not have consistent financial support from LeBron’s father.
During the early years of his childhood, Gloria and LeBron lived with relatives, including her mother, Freda.
However, the family’s circumstances deteriorated after Freda died in December 1987.
According to an extensive 2013 ESPN investigation into LeBron’s upbringing, Gloria and her son subsequently experienced years of financial difficulties and housing instability.
They frequently moved between apartments and temporarily stayed with friends and relatives.
At times, Gloria struggled to find stable employment and relied on assistance from people in their community.
Despite these difficulties, she remained determined to keep her son safe and provide opportunities for his development.
LeBron has repeatedly credited his mother with teaching him resilience, determination, and the importance of supporting loved ones.
In a 2010 interview with WebMD, he described how growing up with a single mother helped him recognize the sacrifices involved in raising children.
He explained that Gloria had fulfilled the responsibilities of both parents throughout his childhood.
How Gloria James Helped LeBron Become a Basketball Player
Gloria James’ most important contribution to her son’s future was her willingness to accept help when she recognized that he needed greater stability.
During LeBron’s elementary school years, frequent moves made it difficult for him to attend classes regularly.
Concerned about his education, Gloria allowed him to live temporarily with the family of youth sports coach Frank Walker.
Frank and his wife, Pam Walker, provided a structured household where LeBron could attend school consistently and participate in organized sports.
LeBron later explained that living with the Walkers exposed him to the stability and routine that had often been missing from his childhood.
Frank helped introduce him to organized basketball, encouraging him to develop the skills that would eventually make him an exceptional athlete.
Although LeBron lived with the Walker family during part of his childhood, he maintained a close relationship with Gloria.
He regularly spent time with his mother, and she continued supporting his sporting activities.
As his basketball abilities developed, Gloria became one of his strongest supporters, attending games and celebrating his achievements.
When the Cleveland Cavaliers selected him with the first overall pick in the 2003 NBA Draft, their years of sacrifice began leading to a more financially secure future.
Gloria has continued attending important games and family celebrations throughout LeBron’s professional career.
She has also participated in activities associated with the LeBron James Family Foundation, including programs supporting children in Akron.
LeBron James’ Father: Anthony McClelland
Anthony McClelland was identified as LeBron James’ biological father in an ESPN profile published in 2003.
According to the publication, Gloria James identified McClelland as LeBron’s father when discussing her teenage pregnancy and their son’s childhood.
However, McClelland was not involved in raising LeBron, who grew up primarily under his mother’s care.
The basketball player has spoken openly about experiencing childhood without an active father figure.
In a 2025 conversation on Savannah James’ Everybody’s Crazy podcast, LeBron reflected on the differences between his upbringing and his wife’s childhood.
He explained that Savannah grew up with two parents and several siblings, while his own home consisted primarily of his mother and other relatives who offered support.
LeBron’s experiences influenced his determination to remain present in the lives of his own children.
Rather than allowing the absence of his father to define his relationships, he has consistently emphasized the importance of supporting Bronny, Bryce, and Zhuri.
Although Anthony McClelland has been identified in early biographical reporting, there is limited verified public information about his later life or any direct relationship with LeBron.
Does LeBron James Have Siblings?
LeBron James is an only child and has no publicly confirmed biological brothers or sisters.
He was raised by Gloria Marie James, who had LeBron when she was 16 years old.
Unlike his wife Savannah, who grew up alongside four siblings, LeBron did not experience childhood with brothers or sisters in his immediate household.
In an October 2025 appearance on the Everybody’s Crazy podcast, LeBron discussed the differences between their family backgrounds, explaining that he grew up without the traditional two-parent, multi-child household his wife had known.
Although he did not have siblings of his own, he developed strong relationships with childhood friends and members of the families who helped raise him.
Does LeBron James Have a Brother?
There is no reliable public confirmation that LeBron James has a biological brother.
However, he frequently describes several longtime friends as brothers because of the close relationships they developed during childhood.
His closest childhood basketball friends included Dru Joyce III, Willie McGee, and Sian Cotton.
The group competed together in youth basketball and later attended St. Vincent-St. Mary High School.
Their friendship became widely known as the Fab Four, a group whose basketball achievements and personal experiences were later documented in the film More Than a Game.
Although these individuals are not LeBron’s biological siblings, their friendship helped provide the companionship and emotional support he lacked from growing up without brothers.
Does LeBron James Have a Sister?
LeBron James also has no publicly confirmed biological sister.
His mother raised him as her only child, and established biographies do not identify any sisters.
During part of his childhood, LeBron lived with Frank and Pam Walker, whose children included Frankie Walker Jr., Chanelle, and Tanesha.
He formed close connections with the Walker children while living in their home.
However, they are members of the family that helped raise him rather than his biological siblings.
These relationships demonstrate how LeBron’s childhood support network extended beyond his immediate family.
LeBron James’ Grandparents and Extended Family
LeBron James’ extended family played an important role during his earliest years in Akron.
Freda James – LeBron James’ Maternal Grandmother
Freda James was LeBron James’ maternal grandmother and the mother of Gloria James.
During the first years of LeBron’s life, she helped provide stability while Gloria continued her education and adjusted to becoming a teenage mother.
According to ESPN’s reporting on the family’s early history, several generations lived together in a house on Hickory Street in Akron.
Unfortunately, Freda died of a heart attack on Christmas Day in 1987, when LeBron was still a young child.
Her death created additional difficulties for the family because Gloria lost one of her most important sources of support.
The financial instability that followed contributed to several years of frequent moves and temporary housing arrangements.
LeBron James’ Uncles
LeBron James’ maternal uncles include Curtis James and Terry James, who were members of Gloria’s family in Akron.
According to ESPN, Gloria and her brothers tried to maintain the family home following their mother’s death, but financial difficulties made the arrangement unsustainable.
Nevertheless, extended relatives continued supporting Gloria and LeBron during parts of his childhood.
Curtis James has also appeared publicly in connection with activities involving the LeBron James Family Foundation.
The presence of extended family members helped LeBron maintain connections to his roots despite the challenges of his early years.
How LeBron James’ Family Influenced His Basketball Career
LeBron James’ basketball career is closely connected to the support he received from his mother, mentors, childhood friends, and later his wife and children.
Growing up in Akron, he experienced poverty and housing instability before finding greater structure through youth sports.
His mother encouraged him to pursue opportunities that could provide a better future, while coaches and family friends helped him develop his basketball abilities.
LeBron became a national sensation at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School before entering the NBA directly from high school in 2003.
He was selected first overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers and quickly established himself as one of the league’s leading players.
Throughout his career, he played for the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, and Los Angeles Lakers, winning NBA championships in 2012, 2013, 2016, and 2020.
His family accompanied him through major professional decisions, including moves between Cleveland, Miami, and Los Angeles.
In February 2023, Savannah, their children, and Gloria attended the game in which LeBron surpassed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to become the NBA’s all-time leading scorer.
LeBron’s relationship with his eldest son also produced a historic moment in October 2024, when he and Bronny became the first father-son duo to play together in the NBA.
In July 2026, LeBron began another chapter of his career by signing with the Philadelphia 76ers.
The move reunited him with the Eastern Conference and provided an opportunity to compete alongside Joel Embiid, Jaylen Brown, Tyrese Maxey, and VJ Edgecombe.
Even as his career continued into his forties, LeBron remained open about the importance of his wife and children in his decision-making.
LeBron James’ Family Foundation and His Childhood Legacy
LeBron James’ difficult upbringing also inspired him to establish programs supporting children and families experiencing similar challenges.
Through the LeBron James Family Foundation, he has invested in educational initiatives and community development programs in Akron, Ohio.
One of the foundation’s most significant projects is the I PROMISE School, which opened on July 30, 2018, through a partnership with Akron Public Schools.
The school was created to support students who face educational and socioeconomic challenges.
Its programs include academic resources, mentorship, and assistance for families.
LeBron has explained that his childhood experiences influenced his desire to create opportunities for children who might otherwise struggle because of circumstances beyond their control.
The foundation has also supported college scholarship initiatives, housing assistance, and additional educational programs.
His mother, Gloria, has participated in several foundation activities, highlighting the family’s continued involvement in their hometown.
These charitable initiatives reflect how LeBron transformed the lessons of his childhood into opportunities for other families.
Frequently Asked Questions About LeBron James’ Family
Who is LeBron James’ wife?
LeBron James’ wife is Savannah James, formerly Savannah Brinson. They met as teenagers in Akron, Ohio, and married on September 14, 2013.
Is LeBron James still married to Savannah?
Yes. As of now, LeBron James and Savannah James remain married. They celebrated their 13th wedding anniversary in September 2026.
How many children does LeBron James have?
LeBron James has three children with his wife Savannah: Bronny James, Bryce James, and Zhuri James.
Who is LeBron James’ oldest son?
His oldest son is LeBron Raymone James Jr., commonly known as Bronny James. He was born on October 6, 2004, and became an NBA player with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2024.
Who is LeBron James’ youngest son?
His youngest son is Bryce Maximus James, born on June 14, 2007. Bryce plays college basketball at the University of Arizona.
Who is LeBron James’ daughter?
His daughter is Zhuri Nova James, born on October 22, 2014. She is the youngest of his three children.
Who is LeBron James’ mother?
LeBron James’ mother is Gloria Marie James, who gave birth to him at the age of 16 and raised him primarily as a single parent in Akron, Ohio.
Who is LeBron James’ biological father?
Anthony McClelland was identified as LeBron James’ biological father in a 2003 ESPN report based on information provided by Gloria James. He did not play an active role in LeBron’s upbringing.
Does LeBron James have brothers or sisters?
No. LeBron James is an only child and has no publicly confirmed biological siblings.
Who is LeBron James’ grandmother?
His maternal grandmother was Freda James, who helped care for him during his early childhood. She died in December 1987.
Who raised LeBron James?
LeBron James was raised primarily by his mother, Gloria James. During part of his childhood, he also lived with Frank and Pam Walker, a family that helped provide educational stability and introduced him to organized basketball.
Where is LeBron James’ family from?
LeBron James and his wife Savannah are both from Akron, Ohio, United States. Their children were also born in Ohio.
Are LeBron James and Bronny James still teammates?
No. LeBron and Bronny played together for the Los Angeles Lakers beginning in 2024. However, LeBron joined the Philadelphia 76ers in July 2026, while Bronny remained with the Lakers.
Candida Lucia is a sports journalist and NBA writer specializing in tactical game analysis, player development, and league coverage. With an eye for on-court execution and team dynamics, she delivers detailed breakdowns of strategy, roster updates, and key performance trends. Passionate about bringing readers closer to the game, Candida offers engaging insights on every aspect of the NBA season, from regular-season battles to the Finals.
