What Hospital Was LeBron Born In? This question has gained remarkable significance in basketball history. LeBron Raymone James, known globally as “King James,” was born at Summa Akron City Hospital (formerly Akron General Medical Center) in Akron, Ohio, on December 30, 1984.
This medical facility holds a unique place in NBA lore, as it’s the birthplace of two basketball legends. Beyond his birthplace, LeBron’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming the NBA’s first active billionaire is nothing short of extraordinary.
At 41 years old in 2026, he continues to dominate the court while building an empire that extends far beyond basketball.
Table of Contents
Quick Facts About LeBron James
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | LeBron Raymone James Sr. |
| Date of Birth | December 30, 1984 |
| Age in 2026 | 41 years old |
| Birthplace | Summa Akron City Hospital, Akron, Ohio |
| Height | 6 feet 9 inches (2.06 m) |
| Weight | 250 lbs (113 kg) |
| Current Team | Los Angeles Lakers |
| Position | Small Forward / Power Forward |
| Net Worth (2026) | $1.2 billion |
| Wife | Savannah James (married 2013) |
| Children | Bronny (20), Bryce (18), Zhuri (11) |
| NBA Championships | 4 (2012, 2013, 2016, 2020) |
| Career Earnings | $580+ million (NBA contracts) |
The Historic Hospital: What Hospital Was LeBron Born In?
Summa Akron City Hospital: A Basketball Legacy
LeBron James was born at Summa Akron City Hospital in Akron, Ohio, a facility that has become legendary in basketball circles. What makes this hospital truly remarkable isn’t just that it’s LeBron’s birthplace—it’s where another NBA superstar entered the world.
Stephen Curry, the Golden State Warriors point guard and fellow MVP, was also born at the exact same hospital just 39 months after LeBron. Both basketball giants were delivered on the same floor, making this medical center the most valuable maternity ward in sports history.
The Incredible Coincidence
The fact that two of basketball’s greatest players share the same birthplace seems almost too perfect to be true. LeBron was born on December 30, 1984, to Gloria Marie James, a single mother who was just 16 years old at the time.
Curry arrived on March 14, 1988, while his father Dell Curry was playing for the Cleveland Cavaliers during the 1987-88 season. This remarkable coincidence has been celebrated by both players and the hospital alike.
Hospital Recognition and Celebrations
During the 2015 and 2016 NBA Finals, when LeBron’s Cavaliers faced Curry’s Warriors, the hospital embraced its unique connection to basketball history. Akron-based Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company partnered with local hospitals to give special care packages to newborns.
These packages included a set of four tires, an “Akron Born” onesie, and a car seat, celebrating the city’s basketball heritage. Dr. Ferris Edward, an obstetrician-gynecologist at the hospital, famously stated that every baby born at Summa has unlimited potential to become an NBA MVP.
LeBron James: Early Life and Childhood Struggles
Growing Up in Akron, Ohio
LeBron’s early years were marked by significant hardship. His mother, Gloria Marie James, raised him alone in the challenging neighborhoods of Akron. They struggled financially and frequently moved from apartment to apartment.
By the time LeBron was five years old, they had moved seven times in just twelve months. This instability made it difficult for young LeBron to find consistency in his life.
The Role of Basketball in His Life
Basketball became LeBron’s refuge and salvation. As a grade-schooler, he showed a natural affinity for the sport. Recognizing his talent and his mother’s struggles, a local family took him in during his formative years.
This act of kindness provided LeBron with stability and allowed him to focus on developing his basketball skills. Well-meaning coaches in Akron’s youth basketball programs helped shepherd him through both the classroom and the court.
High School Stardom
LeBron attended St. Vincent-St. Mary High School in Akron, where he became a national sensation. He led the “Fighting Irish” to three division state titles in four years, showcasing a combination of size, speed, and passing ability that was unprecedented for a high school player.
His games drew such massive crowds that school officials had to move them to the University of Akron’s arena to accommodate the demand. By his junior year, he appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated with the headline “The Chosen One.”
He finished his high school career with 2,657 points, 892 rebounds, and 523 assists, winning the National Player of the Year award twice. LeBron went straight from high school to the NBA, becoming the first overall pick in the 2003 NBA Draft.
LeBron James Age in 2026
Current Age and Career Longevity
As of 2026, LeBron James is 41 years old, having celebrated his birthday on December 30, 2025. What makes his age particularly remarkable is not just the number itself, but the level at which he continues to perform.
LeBron has joined an exclusive group of NBA players who have competed at an elite level past their 40th birthday. His longevity defies conventional wisdom about athletic decline and has redefined what’s possible for professional basketball players.
Defying Age Expectations
At 41, LeBron still commands a salary of $52.6 million for the 2025-26 season, making him one of the highest-paid players in the NBA. His two-year contract with the Lakers, worth $101.3 million, runs through 2026.
He continues to deliver impressive performances that younger players struggle to match. His commitment to physical conditioning, recovery, and body maintenance has become legendary in sports circles.
Historic Achievement: Playing with His Son
In 2024, LeBron achieved something unprecedented in NBA history when his son, LeBron “Bronny” James Jr., was drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers. This made them the first father-son duo to play simultaneously in the NBA.
The emotional weight of sharing the court with his son while still competing at an elite level has added another chapter to LeBron’s already legendary career. At 40, he wasn’t just playing—he was making history alongside his eldest child.
The Longevity Secret
LeBron’s ability to maintain peak performance into his 40s comes from meticulous attention to his body. He reportedly spends over $1.5 million annually on his physical maintenance, including personal trainers, chefs, recovery equipment, and cutting-edge treatments.
This investment in longevity has paid dividends, allowing him to compete against players half his age. His approach to training and recovery has set a new standard for professional athletes across all sports.
LeBron James Net Worth in 2026
Billionaire Status Achievement
LeBron James’ net worth is estimated at $1.2 billion as of 2026, according to Forbes. He made history in 2022 by becoming the first active NBA player to achieve billionaire status.
This milestone wasn’t just about basketball salary—it represented decades of smart business decisions and strategic investments. Unlike many athletes who build wealth after retirement, LeBron assembled his billion-dollar portfolio while still playing at peak performance.
NBA Career Earnings
LeBron has earned more from NBA contracts than any player in league history. His career salary exceeds $580 million, a staggering figure that reflects both his dominance and the rising NBA salary cap over his career.
His current contract pays him $52.6 million for the 2025-26 season. Interestingly, business analysts estimate that LeBron actually sacrificed at least $60 million throughout his career by taking less money to allow teams to sign better supporting players.
For LeBron, championships have always taken priority over maximum contracts. This strategy paid off with four NBA titles and a business empire that far exceeds what he left on the negotiating table.
The Nike Lifetime Deal
In December 2015, LeBron signed a lifetime deal with Nike that reportedly exceeds $1 billion in total value. This contract was the largest endorsement deal in Nike’s company history at the time.
The deal pays approximately $32 million annually and includes equity participation that grows alongside Nike’s business performance. This means LeBron’s wealth increases as Nike’s value increases, creating compound growth that extends far beyond traditional endorsement payments.
The Nike partnership has been fundamental to LeBron’s brand, producing signature sneakers that have generated billions in revenue. His shoes remain among the top-selling basketball footwear lines globally.
Business Investments and Ventures
LeBron’s business portfolio is remarkably diverse and sophisticated. He owns a significant stake in SpringHill Company, his entertainment and production firm that has produced numerous films, documentaries, and television shows.
His early investment in Blaze Pizza turned into one of his most lucrative decisions. He invested less than $1 million initially and watched the fast-casual pizza chain explode in value.
In 2021, LeBron and his business partner Maverick Carter became part-owners of Fenway Sports Group, which owns the Boston Red Sox, Liverpool FC, and other sports properties. This investment alone is valued in the hundreds of millions.
Additional Income Streams
Beyond Nike, LeBron has endorsement deals with AT&T, GMC, PepsiCo, and Walmart, among others. He also invested early in Beats by Dre and earned approximately $30 million when Apple acquired the company for $3 billion in 2014.
He co-founded Ladder, a health and wellness company, with Arnold Schwarzenegger before it was acquired by Beachbody in 2020. His investment in Liverpool FC has appreciated significantly as the team’s value has soared.
LeBron’s approach to wealth building focuses on equity ownership rather than just endorsement fees. This strategy has allowed him to benefit from long-term value creation across multiple industries.
Savannah James: LeBron’s Wife and Partner
High School Sweethearts Love Story
LeBron has been with Savannah James (formerly Brinson) since they were teenagers in Akron. Their love story began when a mutual friend told Savannah that LeBron wanted her phone number.
Rather than give him her number immediately, Savannah took his instead. She called him later, and he invited her to one of his basketball games. The evening ended with the team hanging out at Applebee’s, a modest beginning to one of sports’ most enduring relationships.
Their first official date took place at an Outback Steakhouse. LeBron was just 16 years old, already showing promise as a basketball player but not yet famous or wealthy.
Marriage and Family Life
After being together for a decade, LeBron proposed to Savannah on New Year’s Eve 2011, just minutes after midnight. She said yes, and they married in September 2013 in a private ceremony in San Diego.
Their wedding was an intimate affair, attended by close friends and family. By that time, they already had two sons together and had built a strong foundation as a couple.
Savannah has been widely praised for her role in LeBron’s stability and success. LeBron himself has credited her with being there when he had nothing, calling her a motivational factor in everything he’s achieved.
Their Three Children
The couple has three children who represent the next generation of the James family legacy. LeBron “Bronny” James Jr., born in 2004, is now 20 years old and plays for the Los Angeles Lakers alongside his father.
Bronny’s journey to the NBA was closely watched by basketball fans worldwide. His development as a player and his historic pairing with LeBron have created a unique father-son dynamic in professional sports.
Bryce Maximus James, born in 2007, is now 18 years old and is himself a highly recruited basketball prospect. He’s shown tremendous potential and is following in his father’s and brother’s footsteps.
Zhuri Nova James, born in 2014, is now 11 years old and is the youngest child and only daughter. She’s often seen creating content on social media and has already developed her own following.
Savannah’s Net Worth and Business Ventures
According to Celebrity Net Worth, Savannah James has an estimated net worth of $100 million. While her husband’s success has certainly contributed to the family’s wealth, Savannah has built her own impressive portfolio of business ventures.
She launched “Home Court by LeBron James” in collaboration with American Signature, a furniture line focused on interior design. This venture allows families to create unique, personalized designs for their homes.
During LeBron’s time with the Miami Heat, Savannah ran The Juice Spot, a healthy juice bar that served cold-pressed juices for nearly two years. Though she closed it when the family returned to Cleveland, it demonstrated her entrepreneurial spirit.
Philanthropic Work
Savannah is deeply committed to charitable work, particularly in empowering young women. She founded “Women of Our Future,” a mentorship program in Akron, Ohio, that provides guidance and resources for young girls.
The program reflects Savannah’s commitment to giving back to her hometown and helping the next generation of women achieve their potential. She’s invested in several businesses including Web3 startup Lockerverse, natural deodorant company NEZ, and LeBron’s Lobos Tequila.
Together with LeBron, Savannah has been instrumental in the LeBron James Family Foundation’s initiatives, including the I PROMISE School, which opened in 2018 in Akron to support at-risk students.
LeBron James Basketball Career Highlights
NBA Championships and Finals Appearances
LeBron James has won four NBA championships throughout his illustrious career. He won two titles with the Miami Heat in 2012 and 2013, one with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2016, and one with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2020.
His 2016 championship with Cleveland was particularly meaningful. He fulfilled his promise to bring a championship to his home state of Ohio, leading the Cavaliers to an unprecedented comeback from a 3-1 deficit against the Golden State Warriors.
LeBron has appeared in ten NBA Finals, making eight consecutive appearances from 2011 to 2018. This streak of excellence demonstrates sustained dominance rarely seen in professional sports.
Individual Awards and Achievements
LeBron is a four-time NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP), winning the award in 2009, 2010, 2012, and 2013. He’s also won four NBA Finals MVP awards, demonstrating his ability to elevate his game on the biggest stage.
He won the Rookie of the Year award in 2004, three All-Star Game MVP awards, and the inaugural NBA Cup MVP. These accolades only scratch the surface of his individual accomplishments.
As of 2026, LeBron is the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s long-standing record. He also ranks fourth in NBA career assists and sixth in NBA career steals.
Olympic Success
LeBron has represented the United States in international competition, winning three Olympic gold medals. He was part of the “Redeem Team” that won gold in Beijing 2008 and the team that won in London 2012.
He also won the Olympics MVP award, cementing his status as one of basketball’s all-time greats on the international stage. His Olympic success added to his already legendary career.
Playing Style and Evolution
LeBron’s game has evolved remarkably over his career. Early on, he relied on explosive athleticism, dominant drives to the basket, and spectacular finishes. As he’s aged, he’s developed one of the most complete skill sets in basketball history.
His basketball IQ is considered among the highest in NBA history. He sees plays developing before they happen and can make passes that few others can even imagine.
At 41, he’s adapted his game to conserve energy while maintaining effectiveness. He’s become a more selective shooter, taking higher-quality shots while continuing to facilitate for teammates.
The GOAT Debate: LeBron vs. Michael Jordan
Comparing the Legends
The debate over who is the greatest basketball player of all time—LeBron James or Michael Jordan—has dominated basketball discussions for over a decade. Both have legitimate claims to the title.
Jordan won six NBA championships in six Finals appearances, never losing when it mattered most. His perfect 6-0 Finals record is often cited as the definitive argument in his favor.
LeBron, however, has appeared in ten Finals—four more than Jordan. His 4-6 Finals record is viewed by some as a weakness, but others argue that reaching the Finals ten times demonstrates sustained excellence.
Statistical Comparisons
LeBron is the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, while Jordan is considered by many to have been the more dominant scorer relative to his era. LeBron’s longevity has allowed him to accumulate statistics that Jordan couldn’t match.
In terms of all-around play, LeBron has the advantage. His passing, rebounding, and court vision exceed Jordan’s, making him arguably the more complete player.
Jordan’s defensive prowess, particularly in his prime, gave him advantages that LeBron hasn’t always matched. Jordan won the Defensive Player of the Year award, something LeBron has never achieved.
Generational Perspectives
Polling data shows that younger NBA fans tend to favor LeBron, while older generations who watched Jordan play lean toward MJ. Age and viewing experience heavily influence opinions in this debate.
Data from Business Insider indicates that more-engaged NBA fans who actively follow the league tend to favor LeBron since he’s still playing. The ability to watch him perform influences current perceptions.
Legacy and Impact
Beyond statistics and championships, both players revolutionized basketball in different ways. Jordan made the NBA a global phenomenon in the 1990s through his play and marketing partnerships.
LeBron fundamentally changed player empowerment in the NBA. His willingness to change teams during free agency “defined a decade of player movement,” according to analysts.
Warriors forward Draymond Green reflected on LeBron’s influence: “We’ve taken control of our destiny. And I think a lot of people hate that… I think the doors that he’s opened for athletes and especially basketball players is his biggest accomplishment.”
LeBron James: Beyond Basketball
Media and Entertainment Ventures
LeBron’s SpringHill Company has become a major player in entertainment production. The company has produced the remake of “Space Jam,” titled “Space Jam: A New Legacy,” various documentaries, and television series.
SpringHill productions include “The Wall” on NBC, “Becoming” on Disney XD, “Survivor’s Remorse” on Starz, and the animated web series “The LeBrons.” These ventures have expanded LeBron’s influence far beyond sports.
In 2016, CNBC aired “Cleveland Hustles,” an unscripted series where LeBron financed four Northern Ohio entrepreneurs on the condition they revitalized Cleveland neighborhoods. His commitment to his hometown extends to economic development.
Acting Career
LeBron has pursued acting opportunities throughout his career. He appeared in a memorable cameo on HBO’s “Entourage” and hosted the 2007 ESPY Awards alongside comedian Jimmy Kimmel.
He also hosted the 33rd-season premiere of “Saturday Night Live,” showcasing his comedic timing. His most significant acting role came in the 2015 Judd Apatow film “Trainwreck,” where he played himself.
Critics praised his performance in “Trainwreck,” with many noting his natural comedic ability and screen presence. This role demonstrated that his talents extended beyond basketball.
Social Activism and Political Engagement
LeBron has never shied away from using his platform to address social and political issues. He’s spoken out on racial justice, police brutality, voting rights, and educational inequality.
His willingness to engage politically has drawn both praise and criticism. Fox News host Laura Ingraham famously told him to “shut up and dribble” in response to his political commentary.
LeBron responded by intensifying his activism, recognizing that his platform gives him responsibilities that extend beyond sports. He’s encouraged voter registration and participation, particularly in communities of color.
The I PROMISE School
Perhaps LeBron’s most significant off-court achievement is the I PROMISE School, which opened in 2018 in Akron. The public school serves at-risk students with comprehensive support including education, mentorship, and resources.
The school provides students with free uniforms, transportation, meals, and access to a food pantry for families. It also offers GED classes and job placement services for parents.
The I PROMISE School represents LeBron’s commitment to breaking cycles of poverty and providing opportunities similar to those he received as a child in Akron.
The Akron Connection: Why It Matters
Something in the Water
The fact that both LeBron James and Stephen Curry were born at the same hospital in Akron has become a source of local pride. LeBron himself has joked that there’s “something in the water in Akron, Ohio.”
When asked if Curry’s birthplace contributed to his success, LeBron responded, “That’s already self-explanatory.” This playful acknowledgment has become part of basketball lore.
Akron’s Basketball Heritage
Akron has produced several notable basketball players beyond LeBron and Curry. The city’s youth basketball programs and passionate basketball culture have created an environment where talent can develop.
LeBron’s success has inspired countless young players in Akron to pursue basketball dreams. His visibility and ongoing commitment to the city through the I PROMISE School and other initiatives have strengthened this basketball pipeline.
LeBron’s Ongoing Commitment to Akron
Despite playing professionally in Cleveland, Miami, and Los Angeles, LeBron has maintained deep ties to Akron. His foundation is headquartered there, and he frequently returns to his hometown.
He’s invested millions in Akron’s revitalization through various projects. His commitment goes beyond symbolic gestures to include substantial financial investments in the community.
LeBron James Current Status in 2026
Performance at Age 41
At 41 years old, LeBron continues to perform at a level that defies age expectations. In the 2024-25 season, he helped lead the Lakers to the Western Conference playoffs.
Though the Lakers lost to the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round, LeBron scored 38 points in Game 3, demonstrating that he can still take over games when necessary.
His ability to maintain elite production into his fifth decade as an athlete has surprised skeptics and redefined what’s possible for aging basketball players.
Contract Status and Future
LeBron’s current two-year contract with the Lakers runs through the 2025-26 season. He will become an unrestricted free agent in the summer of 2026, when he’ll be nearly 42 years old.
Speculation about his retirement has intensified as he approaches this milestone. However, LeBron has given no definitive indication about when he’ll step away from basketball.
The historic opportunity to continue playing alongside his son Bronny may influence his decision to extend his career beyond what anyone thought possible.
The Multigenerational Brand
With Bronny now in the NBA and Bryce emerging as a top prospect, the James family brand is becoming multigenerational. This creates continuity that extends LeBron’s influence far beyond his playing days.
SpringHill Company can develop content around the father-son dynamic and potentially expand to include Bryce’s journey. This transforms the James family into something approaching a basketball dynasty.
The architecture of LeBron’s business empire ensures that his children are already integrated into the brand ecosystem, creating wealth continuity that typically dissipates within one or two generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hospital was LeBron James born in?
LeBron James was born at Summa Akron City Hospital (formerly known as Akron General Medical Center) in Akron, Ohio, on December 30, 1984. Remarkably, Stephen Curry was also born at the same hospital just 39 months later.
How old is LeBron James in 2026?
LeBron James is 41 years old in 2026, having been born on December 30, 1984. He’s one of the few NBA players to compete at an elite level past age 40.
What is LeBron James’ net worth in 2026?
LeBron James’ net worth is estimated at $1.2 billion in 2026. He became the first active NBA player to achieve billionaire status in 2022, earning wealth from NBA contracts, endorsements, and business investments.
Who is LeBron James married to?
LeBron James is married to Savannah James (formerly Brinson). They’ve been together since high school and married in September 2013. They have three children: Bronny, Bryce, and Zhuri.
How many children does LeBron James have?
LeBron James has three children with his wife Savannah: LeBron “Bronny” James Jr. (20), Bryce Maximus James (18), and Zhuri Nova James (11). Bronny currently plays for the Los Angeles Lakers alongside his father.
What is Savannah James’ net worth?
Savannah James has an estimated net worth of $100 million as of 2026. She’s built her wealth through business ventures including interior design, furniture lines, investments, and her philanthropic work.
How many NBA championships has LeBron James won?
LeBron James has won four NBA championships: two with the Miami Heat (2012, 2013), one with the Cleveland Cavaliers (2016), and one with the Los Angeles Lakers (2020). He’s appeared in ten NBA Finals total.
Was Stephen Curry really born at the same hospital as LeBron?
Yes, Stephen Curry was born at Summa Akron City Hospital (the same hospital as LeBron) on March 14, 1988. His father Dell Curry was playing for the Cleveland Cavaliers at the time, which is why the family was in Akron.
What is LeBron James’ current salary with the Lakers?
LeBron James earns $52.6 million for the 2025-26 NBA season as part of his two-year, $101.3 million contract with the Los Angeles Lakers. He remains one of the highest-paid players in the league.
Is LeBron James considered the greatest basketball player of all time?
The debate between LeBron James and Michael Jordan as the greatest of all time (GOAT) continues. LeBron is the NBA’s all-time leading scorer with four championships, while Jordan has six championships with a perfect Finals record. Opinions vary based on generational preferences and how greatness is defined.
Conclusion
The story of what hospital LeBron was born in has evolved from a simple biographical fact into a legendary piece of basketball history.
Summa Akron City Hospital in Akron, Ohio, became the birthplace of not one but two NBA superstars, cementing its place in sports lore forever.
At 41 years old in 2026, LeBron James continues to defy expectations both on and off the court. His net worth of $1.2 billion reflects not just basketball excellence but also business acumen that has created generational wealth.
His marriage to Savannah James represents a love story that began in humble circumstances and has flourished through unprecedented success.