PHOENIX – One of the funniest storylines of last year’s NBA season was the rivalry between Phoenix Suns wing Dillon Brooks and Philadelphia Sixers forward LeBron James. The 30-year-old had plenty of on and off the court antics to troll James, including attending Game 4 between the Los Angeles Lakers and Oklahoma City Thunder to watch him get eliminated. Despite switching teams this offseason, James isn’t safe from Brooks, even on his birthday.
Phoenix faces off against Philadelphia at home on Dec. 30, which will be the 42nd birthday for the NBA all-time points leader. A fact that once Brooks learned about made that matchup even more exciting for him.
Apr 10, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks (3) moves the ball against Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
Brooks on facing James on his birthday:
When asked on a follow-up question about if he was disappointed of James leaving the Pacific division leading to less matchups, Brooks stated not at all. However, he does think the anticipation for the eventual game will build up more. Outside of the Dec. 30th game, the two franchises face off again six weeks later in the city of Brotherly Love on Feb. 17th.
Dec 1, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) moves the ball against Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks (3) during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
In 2025-2026, Brooks and James faced off four times, splitting the series. In the Suns two wins, the Canadian averaged 29.0 points on 61% shooting, but only 15.0 points on 48% shooting in the losses. The future Hall of Famer was much more consistent scoring 23+ in three of the four games.
Given the loaded roster around James this season with the Sixers, he’ll have more of a backseat role and likely less opportunities for Brooks to line up across from him. Regardless of the limited possessions, the entertainment value will always remain elite, as the Villain knows how to put on a good show.