‘From Poverty to Wealth’: The Inspiring Journey of LeBron James, the King Raised by Single Mother Transformed by Basketball

LeBron James’ parents: LeBron James is one of the world’s most famous sportsmen, yet many people are curious about his parents and where he came from.

LeBron James praises his mother, Gloria, in magazine interview -  cleveland.com

In a magazine interview, LeBron James honors his mother, Gloria – cleveland.com

If it wasn’t already clear, LeBron James cemented his place as one of the greatest basketball players of all time on February 7, 2023, when he broke Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s career points record. While breaking that record cemented his legend, it also generated suspicions about LeBron’s origins and who his parents are.

Who are LeBron James’ parents?

In 1984, Gloria Marie James gave birth to LeBron in Akron, Ohio. He was born while she was barely sixteen. His father, Anthony McLelland, had a long criminal history and was not involved in his life.

LeBron James Celebrating 50-Point Game With His Mom Gloria: "It's Nothing  Like Your Mom Saluting You After Dropping A 50 Piece! Love To See It!" -  Fadeaway World

“There’s Nothing Like Your Mom Saluting You After Dropping A 50 Piece!” says LeBron James about his 50-point game with his mother, Gloria. “I’d Love To See It!” The World of Fadeaway

According to The Guardian, Gloria’s mother and grandmother both died shortly after LeBron was born, leaving her to care for her son and her younger brothers on her alone.

Who Is LeBron James' Mom? All About Gloria James

Gloria has recently stated, “I wouldn’t wish some of what we went through on anyone.” “Not on my worst enemy.”

The time LeBron met Frank Walker, who eventually decided to take care of him after it became clear that Gloria was struggling to pay for him, was apparently the turning point for him.

Sit Yo a** Down!" When LeBron James yelled at His Mother After a Hard Foul  - EssentiallySports

“My life was transformed. “I had a place to stay and food,” LeBron told The Guardian in 2003. “I’ll never forget what the Walkers, especially Frank, did for me.” He doesn’t get enough credit since he’s so quiet, but he was the first to offer me a basketball and the first to show genuine interest.”

LeBron didn’t pick up a basketball until he was nine years old

Unlike many great basketball prodigies, LeBron did not begin truly learning the game until he was nine years old and living with the Walkers. He started playing organized basketball in the fifth grade and rapidly showed promise that suggested he had talent. He had led his high school team to many state titles at the end of his high school career and was highly considered as an exciting basketball prospect.

Watch: Walmart enlists LeBron James' mom to talk about how community helped  put food on their table | Ad Age

“His gift is that you can teach him something and he catches on really quick,” Frank told The Guardian. “Show him something once or twice, and he’ll take it.” It takes a lot longer with other youngsters. That’s his talent.”

Of course, his natural athleticism, ball skills, and basketball IQ helped his career as well.

As LeBron enters his 20th season, it’s evident that he’ll go down as one of the game’s all-time greats. No one knows when, if ever, his scoring record will be broken — but regardless of how long that record stands, his name is already included among the best to ever play the game.