NBA’s first lady is well known for her big heart. Savannah James’ public image, just like the King, is that of a rock star. Aspiring fitness freak, businesswoman, support system for LeBron James—she can do it all. Whether she’s cheering courtside or showing love to her inner circle, Savannah moves with grace, strength, and intention. She’s the kind of all-rounder who lifts everyone around her, on and off the court. And this is highlighted by her story, wishing her business partner, April McDaniel, a very happy birthday on her Instagram story.

“It’s a real one’s Birthday!!! Love you deep friend💕” read her Instagram story. Throughout all the criticisms Savannah might’ve gotten, April has been with her through and through. So for her to wish her business partner and day 1 best friend on this auspicious occasion is fitting of her public image.

Their friendship traces back to April McDaniel’s work as an event planner for LeBron’s professional engagements. That was about 15 years ago. Isn’t that crazy? Most wouldn’t last more than a few months in a friendship- never mind a decade and a half. It was their similarities that brought them together. From advocacy in self-expression to dreams of expanding their brand into live events and publishing, they’ve really come a long way.

April and Vannah have two business ventures. Well, one of them isn’t technically a ‘business’, but it’s a podcast called Everybody’s Crazy. In what’s been a predominantly private life, Everybody’s Crazy offers a deep insight into her life. Not her husband’s, not her children’s, not her businesses’- ALL her. And who better to talk about with than her best friend, April McDaniel? On the other hand, they have the Let it Break community- a membership-based platform that extends the podcast’s mission by providing resources for personal development, including guided workshops and networking opportunities.

Savannah James is surrounded by people she can love and trust. Having April and LeBron by her side makes her feel at ease at all times. But not all people like that. Especially Kevin Gates, after his recent interactions with her husband on social media.

Kevin Gates speaks disdainfully about Savannah James’ marriage to LeBron James

“I don’t like the way Savannah look at LeBron,” Gates said, referring to the special handshake the baller has with his wife. “I like the way them white women look at LeBron. Like, when as soon as he walk out there, they just be like, ‘Oh oh oh.’ They be d——-.” This was bound to cause friction. If anything, it was intended to. And the rapper knows it.

That didn’t seem to faze the King one bit, though, labeling Kevin a ‘peasant’. “Kings don’t concern themselves with the opinions of peasants. Where to next, Queen?!?! Let’s get it,” captioned James in a post that showed him and Savannah happy and embracing after one of his games.

The comments brought Kevin onto Santa’s naughty list, more so than before. Fans and multiple celebrities from around the world came in support of their King, accusing the artist of disrespecting Savannah and promoting problematic stereotypes.

Regardless of Gates’ comments, Savannah James and LBJ live a marriage that most can only dream of. The court’s favourite couple proves their love for each other day in, day out. If you add that to her long-term friendship with business partner April McDaniel, it points to only one part of her character: loyalty. Take notes.