Could LeBron James Turn Golden State’s Summer League Spark Into One Last Championship Run?

Golden State’s next generation has already delivered some silverware.

The Warriors defeated the Memphis Grizzlies 94-90 to win the 2026 NBA Summer League championship, completing a dramatic fourth-quarter comeback after entering the final period 12 points behind. It was Golden State’s second Las Vegas title, following their first triumph in 2013.

American-Dominican Yaxel Lendeborg was the headline act.

The No.11 draft pick recorded 21 points, 10 rebounds, two assists and two steals, scoring nine points in the fourth quarter to earn championship game MVP honours. Devion Smith added 21 points and nine rebounds from the bench, while Golden State dominated Memphis 50-40 on the boards and 52-40 in the paint. He flows in possession and is effective in both keys, and at 6 feet 9 inches (2.06 m), the 23-year-old has a huge future.

That physical edge mattered. Golden State shot 49% from the field and overcame Memphis making 14 three-pointers, finding enough stops late before Lendeborg buried the clutch jumper that effectively sealed the title.

Summer League success does not guarantee NBA glory, far from it, but Lendeborg looks ready to compete for real minutes. His length, rebounding and switchability could inject badly needed youth into an ageing rotation.

Could LeBron James join Stephen Curry at Golden State?

Now for the rumour bouncing around the league like a loose ball in an empty gym.

LeBron James confirmed he will leave the Los Angeles Lakers, but has not yet announced his next team. Golden State remains a possible destination, although ESPN reported that the Warriors had initially received no indication that he was their firm choice.

The basketball appeal is obvious.

LeBron has strong relationships with Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, while Curry has publicly acknowledged the attraction of finally playing alongside his long-time rival. ESPN has also outlined a financial route for Golden State to create approximately $15.1million in spending power.

A possible starting five could feature Curry, Brandin Podziemski, LeBron, Green and Lendeborg, with Jimmy Butler returning later from his ACL injury. Alternatively, LeBron could operate as the point forward beside Curry, Butler and Green in a veteran-heavy closing unit loaded with passing, strength and postseason intelligence.

There are obvious concerns. Curry is 38, LeBron is 41, Green is approaching the final chapter and Butler’s recovery adds uncertainty. Golden State also finished only 37-45 last season.

But Curry still averaged 26.6 points, while LeBron posted 23.2 points, 7.3 assists and 6.7 rebounds. Add those numbers to Butler, Green and an emerging Lendeborg, and the Warriors would not merely be chasing headlines.

They would be taking one last shot at the crown.