LeBron James joked that Houston Texans edge rusher Will Anderson Jr. is his "fourth child" after the athlete helped him up during a game [1].

The interaction highlights the crossover between professional sports leagues and the personal dynamics James maintains with younger athletes. The moment occurred during the series-clinching Game 6 of the first-round playoff series between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Houston Rockets [1].

The incident took place at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas [2]. James slipped on the court following a missed block and rebound attempt after being rejected by Jabari Smith Jr. [1]. Anderson, who was present at the game, assisted the Lakers star in returning to his feet [1].

Following the game, James commented on the physical resemblance between the Texans player and his own son, Bronny James. "He's a twin with my son Bronny," James said [3]. He further described the interaction, saying, "He helped me up and I told him he's basically my fourth kid" [4].

James finished the game with 28 points, seven rebounds, and eight assists [5]. Despite the slip, the Lakers secured the victory in Houston to win the series [1].

"That's my fourth child," James said when referencing Anderson [1].

“"That's my fourth child."”

The exchange reflects LeBron James' tendency to integrate his family life into his public persona, specifically regarding his role as a father to Bronny. By jokingly claiming Anderson Jr. as a child, James leverages a light-hearted moment to bridge the gap between the NBA and the NFL, reinforcing his status as a central figure in the broader American sports culture.