LeBron James Quashes WNBA Speculation, Confirming Daughter Zhuri James Is a Volleyball Specialist

LeBron James shuts down basketball rumors for daughter Zhuri, 11, confirming her focus on volleyball after a viral warmup session at a Lakers game in San Francisco.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 3, 2026, 6:09 AM EST

Source: People

A Viral Moment at Chase Center

During a pre-game shootaround on Saturday, February 28, 2026, ahead of the Los Angeles Lakers' matchup against the Golden State Warriors, Zhuri James stole the spotlight at Chase Center. The 11-year-old demonstrated impressive court awareness, executing ball-handling drills and sinking a difficult backward over-the-head free throw with her father’s guidance. This rare road-trip appearance—described by LeBron as her first official away game travel outside of All-Star events—immediately sparked social media speculation about a potential future in the WNBA.

Background and Strategic Context

The James family has become a multi-generational basketball dynasty, with eldest son Bronny James already playing alongside LeBron on the Lakers and younger son Bryce James committed to the University of Arizona. Because of this high-profile "James Gang" legacy, fans often project basketball aspirations onto Zhuri. However, LeBron was quick to provide a reality check during post-game interviews, emphasizing that while Zhuri has "good handles" and "good form" from growing up around the NBA, her heart and competitive focus have been rooted in volleyball for several years.

Key Players and Stakeholders

The decision to pivot away from the family trade appears to be a unified front led by Savannah James. LeBron humorously cautioned reporters not to "get my wife mad," explaining that Savannah has reached her limit with basketball schedules after 23 years of NBA life and two sons in the pipeline. Zhuri currently hones her skills with the SZN Volleyball team and previously played for the City Volleyball Club. This shift highlights a strategic move by the James parents to allow their youngest child to forge an independent identity outside of the massive shadow cast by her father’s basketball career.