October 20, 2025

LeBron James, the shining star of the Los Angeles Lakers, owes much of his success to one incredible woman—his mother, Gloria James. Known proudly as the “Mother of the King,” Gloria embraces her role with a tattoo boldly stating "Queen James." This humble yet fierce woman has stood by LeBron from the very start. Born on February 4, 1968, in Akron, Ohio, Gloria faced life’s challenges early. She gave birth to LeBron at just 16, a young mom with big dreams but tough roads ahead. When poverty struck hard, Gloria struggled to make ends meet. At a low point, LeBron even lived in a foster home because bills were too much to handle. LeBron once shared the heavy weight Gloria carried: “Just how much responsibility that comes with being a single mom every single day, you don't have that other half or that helping male influence in the house that can — especially in my case, being a son — that can give you that fatherly love or that fatherly guidance.” Despite hardships, Gloria’s spirit never broke. With the support of her own mother, Freda James Howard, Gloria raised LeBron with love and strength. Even after Freda’s passing, Gloria fought hard to keep her son safe and focused. LeBron treasures his mother’s role in his life. “She gave me strength to a point where I never even had to think about that, and I have no idea where she got it from,” he said. “To this day I still won't even ask her, but she's definitely the champion.” The bond they share is unbreakable. Gloria never pushed LeBron to be an NBA star. Instead, she wanted him to be happy. “What I want for LeBron is his happiness. He loves basketball,” she said. “But I would like to see him graduate with his class from high school, at least. But we'll make a decision when the time comes.” From a teen mom battling tough times to the queen behind an NBA king, Gloria James’s story is one of fierce love, hope, and unyielding support. She is truly the powerhouse who helped raise one of basketball’s biggest legends.

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Tags: Lebron james, Gloria james, Nba, Los angeles lakers, Basketball, Family support,