LeBron James was moved to tears Wednesday night during a first-quarter video tribute at Rocket Arena, showcasing his legendary 48-point performance against the Pistons in 2007. The 41-year-old superstar, now in his record-setting 23rd NBA season and his eighth year with the Los Angeles Lakers, admitted the gravity of the moment hit him differently this time.

"I’m just trying to take everything in, not take the moments for granted," James said following the 129-99 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers. "Because it could be [my last season]. I obviously haven't made a decision on the future, but it very well could be."

The night began with the familiar energy of a James homecoming, complete with a standing ovation during intros and his signature pre-game chalk toss. However, the sentimentality did not translate to the scoreboard. The Cavs, led by 25 points from Donovan Mitchell and 20 from Jaylon Tyson, dismantled the Lakers in a lopsided affair.

James finished with just 11 points on 3-for-10 shooting, his lowest scoring output ever as a visitor in Cleveland. The Lakers faced adversity early when Luka Dončić suffered an injury scare after falling off the arena’s elevated court. While Dončić returned to score 29 points, the Lakers never regained their rhythm, particularly during a disastrous third quarter where they were outscored 42-22. Lakers coach JJ Redick took the blame for the performance, noting he was outcoached and failed to make necessary substitutions.

Despite the blowout, the Cleveland crowd stayed energized, eventually chanting "We want Bronny!" in the fourth quarter. It was a call for LeBron James’ son, Bronny James, who checked in and delivered a flurry of highlights, including a breakaway dunk and two 3-pointers to finish with eight points. The elder James beamed with pride watching his son perform in the arena where the four-time champion built his legacy.

After the game, James shared a moment with his mother, Gloria James, who watched the game from a suite, and presented her with his game-worn jersey.

"My mom gets to watch her son and her grandson play in the NBA at the same time," James said. "I actually just started to think about how insane that is."

While the Cavaliers have reportedly expressed interest in bringing the future Hall of Famer back for a third stint for next season, the possibility of retirement loomed large over the evening. If Wednesday was indeed the final time James suits up in Cleveland, he left the floor having come full circle from a teenage prodigy to a veteran sharing the court with his son.