What was the outcome of the Lakers vs. Cavaliers game on January 28, 2026?

The Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 129-99.

Why did LeBron James become emotional during the game?

LeBron James wiped away tears while watching a tribute video played by the Cavaliers at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, reflecting on his deep connection to Cleveland.

What did LeBron James say about his retirement plans?

James stated he has not made a decision on retirement, is battling 'Father Time' at age 41, and any farewell tour would come after the season.

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1M ago

LeBron James Tearful During Possible Final Cleveland Return

LeBron James wiped away tears during a tribute video at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse on Jan. 28, 2026.

Overview

A summary of the key points of this story verified across multiple sources.

LeBron James, 41, wiped his eyes during a tribute video at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse on Jan. 28, 2026, according to game accounts.

James said after the game that he does not know whether Jan. 28, 2026, will be his last trip to Cleveland and that he is "in a battle with Father Time," according to his postgame remarks.

Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers guard, said the ovation and tribute reminded him of what James has meant to the city, according to postgame comments.

James is in his 23rd NBA season and was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2003 draft, according to league records.

James said he has not made a decision about retirement and that any farewell tour "will come after the season," leaving his future plans unresolved, according to his postgame comments.

Written using shared reports from

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Analysis

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Center-leaning sources present this story neutrally, focusing on observable events (tribute video, James wiping tears, game stats) and including direct quotes from James, coach JJ Redick and Donovan Mitchell. Language is descriptive rather than evaluative, multiple perspectives are included, and structural choices prioritize the human-interest moment alongside performance details.

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Sources (3)

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LeBron James wipes away tears during LA Lakers defeat at Cleveland Cavaliers

BBC News•1M ago

LeBron James wipes away tears during tribute in Cleveland. Was it his last game there?

Chicago Tribune•1M ago

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‘I’m battling Father Time’: LeBron James reflective and tearful in possible Cleveland farewell

The Guardian•1M ago

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: The Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 129-99.
Sources:
ESPN
: LeBron James wiped away tears while watching a tribute video played by the Cavaliers at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, reflecting on his deep connection to Cleveland.
Sources:
ESPN
: James stated he has not made a decision on retirement, is battling 'Father Time' at age 41, and any farewell tour would come after the season.
Sources:
ESPN
: Donovan Mitchell said the ovation and tribute reminded him of what James has meant to the city of Cleveland.
Sources:
ESPN

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