LeBron James Reacts to Major Coaching News on Thursday
LeBron James is getting ready to play in his 23rd season in the NBA.
Throughout his career, playing with the Los Angeles Lakers, Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat, James has played with countless teammates.
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During his time with the Lakers, James took the court with Jared Dudley, an NBA journeyman who retired from the league several years ago.
After his playing career, Dudley moved on to various coaching roles, having recently finished the NBA season on the Dallas Mavericks staff.
Dudley has served as an assistant coach with the Mavericks since 2021 and has now moved on to take a role as the top assistant coach for the Denver Nuggets.
"Dallas Mavericks assistant Dudley is finalizing a deal to become the top assistant coach for the Denver Nuggets under David Adelman, Andy Miller of Klutch Sports tells ESPN. Dudley has been on Mavs' staff since 2021 after a 14-year NBA career, per Shams Charania.
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Upon the release of the announcement, LeBron James took to social media, sharing his thoughts on the move for Dudley, his former teammate.
"Congrats, my brother," James said. "Well deserved."
LeBron James, Instagram LeBron James, Instagram
Dudley will now continue his coaching career after playing for the following teams during his time as a player: Charlotte Bobcats, Phoenix Suns, Los Angeles Clippers, Milwaukee Bucks, Washington Wizards, Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Lakers.
Dudley won an NBA championship alongside LeBron James in 2020 with the Lakers.
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James is entering his 23rd season in the NBA.© Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Quite astonishingly, when his teammate is taking up coaching assignments, James is keeping the league hot. During the last season with the Los Angeles Lakers, he posted 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds and 8.2 assists per game. Even while entering his 23rd season, the hype around him has not dampened, and James' production is indeed living up to it.
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Related: LeBron James Had No Words for Luka Doncic Announcement on Saturday
Related: Big Luka Doncic Announcement Turns Heads on Saturday
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 3, 2025, where it first appeared.
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