LeBron James is known for his meticulous preparation, relentless work ethic, and ability to perform at an elite level even as he approaches his third decade in the NBA. But according to former teammate Anthony Davis, part of that preparation includes one of the most unusual pregame rituals in the league.
Davis recently revealed that as soon as LeBron arrives at the arena, he carefully lays out his entire uniform—jersey, shorts, socks, shoes—on the floor. And here’s the catch: no one is allowed to touch it or even walk over it. Teammates and staff must navigate around the setup, treating it almost like a sacred space.
While this might seem like an odd superstition, it’s clear that for LeBron, it’s more than just a habit—it’s a mental exercise. The visualization of his uniform, untouched and perfectly arranged, could serve as a way to lock in before tipoff, reinforcing his focus and game-day mindset.
LeBron’s ritual isn’t the first of its kind in professional sports. Many athletes have quirky habits they swear by—Michael Jordan wore his college shorts under his NBA uniform, Serena Williams refused to change her socks during a winning streak, and Rafael Nadal follows a strict sequence of movements before every serve.
For LeBron, this uniform-laying tradition might be his way of mentally preparing for battle. It’s a reminder of the uniform he’s about to wear, the role he’s about to play, and the dominance he’s about to unleash on the court.
Considering LeBron’s sustained excellence, it’s hard to argue against his methods. Even at 40 years old, he continues to put up elite numbers, averaging 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists this season. His preparation—whether it’s stretching, hydration, visualization, or uniform placement—has clearly contributed to his longevity and success.
