LeBron James gets brutally honest about wife Savannah staying in Los Angeles after Lakers exit

Much has been made about LeBron James’ decision to live in New York while playing for the Philadelphia 76ers.

This has overshadowed what James would surely say is more important: who is — or more accurately, isn’t — living in New York with him.

LeBron’s wife, Savannah, has remained in Los Angeles with their 11-year-old daughter, Zhuri.

LeBron James, left, and his wife, Savannah James, attend the Time100 Sports List at Pier Sixty Chelsea Piers in New York, Thursday, July 16, 2026.

A New York Times article published on Wednesday explained that Savannah and LeBron decided it was best she remain in Los Angeles so as not to disrupt Zhuri’s schooling. But this hasn’t been easy for the 41-year-old.

“It’s going to be challenging, for sure, because she’s always been my backbone,” LeBron said of living in New York while Savannah remains in Los Angeles.

“But, listen, whatever my daughter, whatever my wife need in order for them to continue to grow. I’m landing my plane soon. It’s all good.”

Philadelphia 76ers forward LeBron James looks on during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the New York Knicks Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026, in New York.

Savannah James attends the Blue Jacket Fashion Show, an event supporting prostate cancer awareness and men's health through fashion and philanthropy, in Los Angeles, California, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026. — Savannah James attends the Blue Jacket Fashion Show, an event supporting prostate cancer awareness and men’s health through fashion and philanthropy, in Los Angeles, California, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.

Savannah James is also an entrepreneur whose business endeavors are rooted in Los Angeles, which added another reason why it made sense for her to remain on the West Coast.

The 76ers’ first game in California this season isn’t until Christmas Day, when LeBron will get to face his former franchise in Los Angeles.