UPDATE: The intense rivalry between LeBron James and Dillon Brooks reignites today as the Los Angeles Lakers face off against the Phoenix Suns at 7:00 PM ET in Phoenix. Both players are eager to showcase their skills in this must-watch matchup, promising fireworks on the court.
Just announced, this rematch follows a controversial season filled with heated exchanges and dramatic moments between the two stars. The Lakers and Suns have split their previous two meetings this season, but tensions are running high as Brooks looks to get under James’ skin once again, especially after their infamous run-in during the 2023 NBA Playoffs.
Brooks, who recently signed a 4-year, $80 million deal with the Suns, is averaging a career-high 21.7 points this season. In contrast, James is putting up 20.2 points in his 23rd year in the league, despite missing several games due to injuries. Both players are key to their teams’ success and are expected to leave it all on the court tonight.
Their rivalry began in earnest in 2021 when James executed the notorious “too small” gesture against Brooks. This season, the animosity has escalated, with Brooks calling James a “social media junkie” following a 116-114 Lakers victory in December 2025, which featured multiple confrontations between the two. In that game, Brooks was ejected after a heated exchange, yet it only fueled the fire for their next encounter.
Notably, Brooks delivered a standout performance with 33 points in a previous matchup, sparking further drama as he celebrated in front of James. The back-and-forth has captivated fans, with James frequently responding to Brooks’ antics during games. After their last clash, James stated, “He’s a great competitor. I like going against him,” highlighting the competitive spirit that defines their rivalry.
As the two teams prepare for their next showdown, all eyes will be on Brooks to see if he can once again spark a reaction from the seasoned champion. The atmosphere is set to be electric, and fans are eagerly anticipating how this narrative will unfold.
With the stakes higher than ever, expect both players to bring their A-game tonight. Will Brooks manage to outshine James once again, or will the veteran prove why he remains a formidable force in the league? Tune in at 7:00 PM ET to catch all the action live and witness this thrilling chapter in their ongoing rivalry.
