LeBron James, the legendary NBA icon, may not have experienced March Madness as a player, but in 2024, he found himself cheering on a team with a truly special story: The Duquesne Dukes. Duquesne's journey to the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament, also known as March Madness, was remarkable. After winning the Atlantic 10 Conference championship, they secured their place in the Big Dance for the first time since 1977, ending a 47-year drought – the eighth-longest active streak in men's college basketball history.

LeBron James' Special Gift to Duquesne

LeBron James, with his well-known philanthropic side, decided to surprise the Duquesne team with a memorable gift even before they took the court. LeBron James shoes – a pair for each player – arrived on a hotel luggage cart, generating a wave of excitement and cheers from the entire team. This act of generosity wasn't random. LeBron James' connection to Duquesne runs deep.

The team's associate head coach, Dru Joyce III, shared a special history with James. They were high school teammates at St. Vincent-St. Mary's in Akron, Ohio, under the guidance of Coach Dru Joyce II, Dru III's father. Together, they captured a national championship in 2003. LeBron James and Dru Joyce III's high school connection adds another layer to this heartwarming story. Coach Dru is credited with recognizing James' talent at a young age, even convincing James' mother to allow him to join an AAU team with Joyce III.

More Than Just Shoes: The Enduring Power of Mentorship

Years later, the special bond between James and the Joyce family came full circle. With his son Bronny James' USC Trojans missing the NCAA Tournament field, it was clear who LeBron James would be cheering for: the Duquesne Dukes. James' gesture not only boosted the team's morale but also highlighted the enduring power of mentorship and camaraderie forged on the basketball court.

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Image credit of AP