'An Ice-Breaker': LeBron James Clears Air On Viral Jeanie Buss Incident From 18 Months Ago

“It was just a moment,” James said. “It is what it is, it was what it was. To be completely honest, the two women … Jeanie Buss, Linda Rambis, two of the greatest people in sports, and I went over there and just … I wasn’t playing that night, unfortunately, I was injured, and that’s kind of like the first thing that came to my mind.” 

He continued: “Was it International’s Women’s Day? I believe it was. … And then the conversation started. Like I say it’s a conversation breaker? Like an ice-breaker,” James added. 

This interaction had fans speculating heavily: what was the real meaning? Were there deeper signs between James and Buss? But LeBron James insists it was simply a respectful gesture. He said he was not playing that night due to injury, and that greeting Buss and Rambis was about recognition, not controversy. 

LeBron James has always had his share of moments in public view, whether on court or off. This one, in his view, was mild—something that got out of control only because people made it bigger. He asked for people to see it for what it was: a chance to honor women in sports, not a headline drama.

At age 40 and entering his 23rd NBA season, LeBron James remains careful about letting his image be distorted by rumors. This clarification helps set the record straight, especially for those who saw him and thought there was more to the story than meets the eye.

Lakers’ Future With LeBron James And Jeanie Buss: How Solid Is The Bond?

Recent developments suggest that the relationship between LeBron James and Jeanie Buss may be entering a new phase. On June 29, 2025, James exercised his $52.6 million player option for the 2025-26 season. His agent Rich Paul said James wants to keep competing for championships, but is watching very closely what the Lakers do in the offseason.  –Reuters

Rich Paul also said:

“We are very appreciative of the partnership that we’ve had for eight years with Jeanie [Buss] … and consider the Lakers as a critical part of his career.” 

Still, LeBron James is clear: he needs a realistic shot at winning. He understands the team is in transition and that new players and strategies will be part of how far they go.

Jeanie Buss sold a majority stake in the Lakers this summer to Mark Walter, though she remains the team governor. That move has sparked questions among fans whether James will stay long-term or consider other options. 

For LeBron James, the bond with Buss has brought success: a title, playoff runs, and massive visibility. But now, with roster pressures, ownership changes, and the ticking clock on his career, that bond may be tested more than ever.