From the Liveblog of
Monday, February 16, 2026
Lakers’ LeBron James says he ‘hopefully’ can make it to Israel someday, praises ‘exceptional’ Avdija
Add ToI as a Preferred Source on GoogleLos Angeles Lakers star LeBron James said he hopes to visit Israel and praised basketballer Deni Avdija at a press conference ahead of the NBA All-Star game at the Intuit Dome.
LeBron says he believes Avdija, the first Israeli to be an NBA All-Star player, is an “exceptional” basketballer, answering a question by a Channel 14 reporter.
“I hope I inspire people over there not only to be great in sports, but to be better in general in life, so, hopefully someday I can make it over there,” he said, adding he’s “heard great things” about the country.
LeBron James on Israel:
“I hope I inspire people over there not only to be great in sports, but to be better in general in life, hopefully someday I can make it over there.” pic.twitter.com/Z5rPTzFval
— SM Highlights (@SMHighlights1) February 15, 2026
The Times of Israel Community.