“We do want to evaluate what’s best for LeBron at this stage in his life and career. He wants to make every season he has left count.” That single comment from agent Rich Paul sent shockwaves through the Lakers’ offseason plans. The 40-year-old superstar LeBron James recently picked up his $52.6 million player option, locking him into Los Angeles for now.

Yet, the question of where LeBron James plays next season remains the NBA’s spiciest offseason headline. And one franchise is showing real interest.  It’s the Cleveland Cavaliers. And with new news swirling, fans are bracing for what feels like a possible homecoming.

On Monday, sources told ESPN the Cavaliers handed out multiyear extensions to their front office after a dominant season. Owner Dan Gilbert rewarded Koby Altman, general manager Mike Gansey, and assistant GM Brandon Weems for Cleveland’s sustained rise. Now, fans might wonder, what does LeBron James have to do with this front office shakeup? The answer’s simple: Brandon Weems. He’s not just Cleveland’s AGM; he’s also one of LeBron’s closest, longest-standing friends.

ESPN insider Shams Charania broke the news on X (formerly Twitter), announcing Cleveland’s front office contract extensions. “Cleveland Cavaliers president Koby Altman – the architect of the burgeoning title contender – has signed a contract extension through 2029-30, sources tell ESPN. Cavs’ front office, including Mike Gansey and Brandon Weems, received extensions amid rise to No. 1 seed in East.” Shams posted. Within two hours, word reached LeBron James. And the King didn’t stay quiet for his lifelong friend, Brandon Weems.

Reposting Shams’ announcement, LeBron wrote on X, “YESSIR!!! Congratulations to my brother B.Weems!! Super proud of u man 🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙏🏾🤎”. On the surface, it reads like a simple shoutout. But here’s the catch, LeBron’s stayed radio silent on the Lakers’ entire offseason. No comments on free agents. No reactions to roster moves.

Yet, when Cleveland rewards his longtime friend, LeBron makes noise. That small gesture ignited a wave of speculation. Could his 23rd NBA season bring No. 23 back to Cleveland? Fans are starting to believe it.

Now that LeBron’s comment has touched the online platform, homecoming rumors are heating up fast. Naturally, fans are growing curious about Brandon Weems. Who is he, and just how close is he to LeBron James?

A closer look at LeBron James and Brandon Weems’ friendship

LeBron James and Brandon Weems grew up a grade apart, playing youth sports and dominating high school courts together in Akron. Both starred for St. Vincent-St. Mary’s, a nationally ranked powerhouse program in the early 2000s. While James chased NBA stardom, Weems carved his own lane. And became an All-American at NAIA Walsh University in Ohio. His coaching path included stops at Kentucky, Drexel, and Oakland before landing with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2015 as a college scout. By 2017, Weems earned a promotion to director of scouting and stayed loyal after LeBron’s 2018 move to Los Angeles.

On top of it all, Brandon Weems’ mother, Brenda Lewis-Weems, held a special place in LeBron James’ life. Because she was his godmother. She passed away in 2006, just days before LeBron’s first NBA playoff appearance. And back then, LeBron honored her by making 32 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists in his postseason debut. Years later, tragedy struck again when Brandon’s sister, Ericka Weems, was killed by gunfire at 37. LeBron was shattered and furious, publicly demanding answers and justice for someone he called family.

“My brother’s sister was murdered this past weekend in her home! My brother family need answers to why and by whom,” James wrote on Twitter. He added, “My city I need y’all to go to work and find out who did this awful, shameful, disgusting thing to such a caring, loving angel!” That’s the depth of LeBron and Brandon Weems’ bond. It’s not just friendship, but brotherhood.

So while LeBron James‘ recent shoutout fueled hope of a Cleveland homecoming, fans should tread carefully. Until James speaks directly, it’s just a heartfelt congratulations, nothing more.