LeBron James has spent part of his rehab from right-side sciatica working out with the Los Angeles Lakers’ G League affiliate, giving South Bay Lakers players and coaches an unexpected close-up look at the NBA’s all-time leading scorer.
The 40-year-old forward, who has missed the first 14 games of the 2025-26 campaign, was cleared for full-contact drills last week. Because the Lakers were on a five-game road trip, James joined South Bay practices in El Segundo to log needed five-on-five sessions.
‘Unbelievable’ for South Bay roster
South Bay head coach Zach Guthrie called the visit “an unbelievable experience” for everyone involved.
“To have the greatest player of all time join your practice, first and foremost, what an opportunity for each and every one of us,” Guthrie told reporters. He highlighted James’ punctuality, focus and post-practice recovery work as examples for younger players to study.
James enjoyed the G League tune-up
Speaking after a Lakers workout on Monday, James said he appreciated South Bay’s flexibility, noting he asked to move practice up from 11 a.m. to 10 a.m. “I wanted to go at eight,” he joked. He described the sessions as “humbling,” adding that the organization’s “farm system” allowed him to play his first five-on-five since spraining his MCL against Minnesota.
Strong start for South Bay
Guthrie’s club is 3-0 to open the G League season, and the coach believes the brief stint with James offered invaluable lessons in professionalism and preparation.
Lakers eager for star’s return
While James has yet to suit up for the Lakers this year, his impending comeback is already energizing the roster. “We can’t wait,” guard Luka Doncic said. “It’s Bron, so it’s always good to have him back. Hopefully soon.”
Source: Lakers Nation
