James and Luka Dončić combined for 48 points to lead the Lakers to a much-needed victory. But when asked about the win, LeBron pointed to a special guest in the stands.
“She’s a volleyball player, but she’s been around the game for a while.. got good handles.. good form too,” James said with a smile.
According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, this was Zhuri’s first road trip appearance outside of All-Star games. And her presence coincided with one of the Lakers’ most dominant performances of the season.
Austin Reaves, overheard off-camera, immediately suggested: “She’s going to Denver.”LeBron’s response was pure dad: “Don’t say that too loud, because she’ll definitely be like, ‘Dad, can I go…'”
James has been open about how fatherhood has changed him. Speaking further about Zhuri, he admitted that her birth in 2014 transformed his perspective.
“It’s special. It’s definitely softened me up over the last 11 years. I had two boys to begin with, but getting that little girl 11 years ago has definitely softened me up.”
“So, it’s special to have her. It’s a different type of love. If anybody got girls and boys, it’s a different type of love that you [have].”
While Zhuri was the story after the game, LeBron’s performance was worth celebrating too. Twenty-two points in a statement win over a Western Conference rival, at 41 years old, with retirement rumors swirling.
LeBron James has accomplished everything in basketball. But watching him light up talking about his daughter’s first road trip? That might be the real win.
Zhuri is officially the Lakers’ good-luck charm. And if Austin Reaves has his way, she’ll be courtside for every playoff game.