LeBron James emotional during his return to Cleveland, Cavaliers dominate 129-99

LeBron James’ return to Cleveland turned into a nightmare for the Lakers, heavily beaten 129-99 by the Cavaliers on Wednesday night. The 41-year-old Akron native experienced one of his worst performances in his hometown with only 11 points on the scoreboard.

An emotional evening for the King

The emotion was palpable from the first quarter when the Cavaliers showed a tribute video featuring James’ 25 consecutive points during Game 5 of the 2007 Eastern Conference Finals against Detroit. The Akron native couldn’t hold back his tears facing the Cleveland crowd’s ovation.

For the first time in 13 trips to Cleveland as an opposing player, James failed to reach the 20-point mark. He finished 3/10 from the field, 0/3 from three-point range and 5/6 from the free-throw line in 27 minutes of play. This 30-point defeat also represents his heaviest loss in Cleveland since he left Ohio.

LeBron James gets emotional after his tribute video in Cleveland.pic.twitter.com/kU1MSP8WAN

— Underdog NBA (@UnderdogNBA) January 29, 2026

Cleveland takes control in the third quarter

Trailing 57-55 at halftime, the Cavaliers blew the game open in the third quarter by dominating the Lakers 42-22. Donovan Mitchell led the charge with 25 points, accompanied by Jaylon Tyson (20 points) and De’Andre Hunter (19 points). Jarrett Allen added 17 points and 9 rebounds for Cleveland.

On the Lakers’ side, Luka Dončić was the only one to stay afloat with 29 points, despite a left ankle injury that forced him to temporarily leave the court in the first quarter. Los Angeles, on a seven-game road trip, now holds a 3-2 record.

The evening ended on a positive note for the James family, with Bronny James entering the game in the fourth quarter. LeBron’s son treated the Cleveland crowd to a fast-break dunk and two three-pointers, triggering enthusiasm from fans who chanted his name.

This fifth consecutive victory allows the Cavaliers to continue their excellent momentum, scoring at least 40 points in a quarter for the 12th time this season. A performance that raises questions about LeBron James’ future, a free agent this summer, and a possible final appearance in the arena where his jersey will one day be retired.

PLAYER PROFILE

LeBron JAMES

Position(s): Forward

Height: 203 cm

Age: 41 years (12/30/1984)

Nationality:

Stats 2025-2026 / NBA

PTS

21.8

#34

REB

6

#77

AST

6.8

#17