It seems like Tyrese Maxey is on top of his game now! After dominating the previous game with 43 points, he single-handedly led the 76ers to a 118-104 victory against the Lakers. Even LeBron, the GOAT himself, was unable to keep up with his 31 points and 9 assists. But the highlight moment of this game happened off the court. With a heartfelt gesture, King James had everyone talking.

Bron took to Instagram and re-posted a clip of Maxey’s post-game interview, captioned, “He’s a (star emoji)!!!!! Early am training first hand seeing the commitment! Love lil bro! Keep going UP!” The message wasn’t just a casual shoutout, it felt like a genuine showcasing of support and mentorship. It’s a reminder that even at the highest levels of competition, there’s still room for camaraderie, respect, and a little bit of brotherly love.

The 24-year-old guard has become a key contributor to the 76ers’ success this season in the absence of star players such as Joel Embiid and Paul George. This season, Tyrese is averaging 27.1 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 5.9 assists, proving himself as one of the league’s elite young talents. His ability to carry the offensive load has kept the 76ers competitive in the East, with the team striving to secure a spot in the NBA Play-In Tournament at least.

This is not the first instance LeBron James has spoken about Tyrese Maxey. James has praised the 24-year-old’s hustle and drive, often mentioning him in social media shoutouts. “Love this kid, man! The work never lie, and that’s why he’s so damn good!! And, more importantly, he’s a better person, which is insane!!” James once wrote in 2023 after Maxey and Co. handed the LA Lakers a hefty blowout loss, 138-94! Even though they’re fierce competitors, these moments of recognition between players not only strengthen their relationship but also become interesting storylines as exciting as the game itself. There’s more to this story.

Did ‘Big Brother’ LeBron James make Tyrese Maxey wait for 5 years?

In the clip that LeBron James shared of Maxey’s interview, the latter said, “I waited five years to ask for a jersey, I know I’ve known you for a while but I think I’m gonna go ahead and get it this year.” From growing up and watching your heroes play to receiving their jersey after a game against them, Tyrese, for sure, was riding a high wave of emotions. Maxey said, “He’s like cool but he’s just like a big brother to me.” It’s clear, these two have a real connection!

The story goes deeper than just a jersey.

Both LeBron James and Tyrese Maxey are represented by the same agent, Rich Paul, at Klutch Sports. They’ve also spent time working out together in the off-season. Maxey even shared a funny story about how LeBron used to beat him to the gym, and how that little bit of competition pushed them both.

“He (LeBron James) started getting to the gym at 5 and lifted. So, he was in a full sweat like at 5:30, once I got to the gym, and I was like ‘Man you got it man, you win, I ain’t going to lie!'”

Mind you, this is a late 30s, now 40-year-old LeBron James we’re talking about. Be honest, this small anecdote did give you Kobe-like vibes, didn’t it? The late Laker used to be hustling in a dark gym early in the morning, two hours before practice, once even with a broken wrist!

Back to Maxey, as head coach Doc Rivers decided Tyrese has become “one of our main bench guys”, he evolved with his game and grew through the ranks, being named the 2023–24 NBA Most Improved Player, and the winner of the 2023–24 NBA Sportsmanship Award. His efforts towards the Sixers team were well recognized, and he signed a $204 million 5-year max deal with the team in 2024.