San Antonio, Texas, January 9, 2026
LeBron James was recently spotted outside Hotel Emma in San Antonio before a game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the San Antonio Spurs. Despite the excitement generated around his appearance, James did not participate in the game due to health issues, leading to the Lakers’ defeat. Hotel Emma, a favorite among celebrities, showcases local culture while highlighting the ongoing intersection between sports and community spirit in San Antonio.
San Antonio, Texas
LeBron James Spotted Outside Hotel Emma Ahead of Lakers’ Loss to Spurs
LeBron James made headlines on January 7, 2026, when he was spotted outside Hotel Emma in San Antonio, prior to the Los Angeles Lakers’ game against the San Antonio Spurs. The sighting highlighted the intersection of sports and local culture, showcasing how even big names in the NBA find themselves attracted to the charm of San Antonio. However, despite the buzz surrounding his appearance, James did not participate in the game, contributing to the Lakers’ 107-91 loss to the Spurs.
Details of the Sighting
Captured on video by local media, James was seen in an all-black outfit, casually making his way onto the Lakers’ team bus stationed outside the renowned Hotel Emma. The bus quickly departed for the Frost Bank Center, the site of the evening’s match, drawing attention from fans eager for any involvement from the superstar.
James’ Absence from the Game
At 41 years old, LeBron’s absence from the game was due to health considerations, specifically left foot joint arthritis and right sciatica. This decision reflects the Lakers’ proactive approach to ensuring the longevity and health of their star player, especially during a taxing back-to-back game schedule.
Background on Hotel Emma
Hotel Emma, located within the vibrant Pearl District of San Antonio, has solidified its status as a favored destination for celebrities. Its appeal lies not only in its luxurious accommodations but also in its historic charm and culinary offerings. Renowned figures like Paul McCartney and basketball star Jalen Brunson have recently graced its halls, further establishing Hotel Emma as a staple in San Antonio’s cultural and social scene.
Upcoming Game
Looking ahead, the Lakers are preparing to face the Milwaukee Bucks on January 9, 2026, at 7:30 PM PST. Fans will undoubtedly be watching closely to see if James returns to the court in this matchup.
Recent Game Results
Here’s a recap of the Lakers’ recent game:
- Lakers (LAL) @ Spurs (SAS) on Wednesday, Jan 07, 2026 – Final score: LAL 91 – SAS 107
- Bucks @ Lakers on Friday, Jan 09, 2026 at 07:30 PM PST
Conclusion
The intersection of sports and local pride takes center stage in San Antonio, as stars like LeBron James draw attention to the city. Such high-profile visits not only invigorate local spirits but also underscore the community’s growing recognition on a national platform. As we look forward to more sporting events and celebrity sightings, there’s a palpable excitement about how these moments contribute to San Antonio’s cultural fabric and economic vitality. Residents are encouraged to continue supporting local businesses and engaging with the city’s dynamic offerings as this growth trend unfolds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was LeBron James spotted outside Hotel Emma?
LeBron James was seen outside Hotel Emma in San Antonio on January 7, 2026, prior to the Lakers’ game against the Spurs. Despite this, he did not participate in the game.
Did LeBron James play in the game against the Spurs?
No, LeBron James did not play in the game against the San Antonio Spurs on January 7, 2026. He was listed as out due to left foot joint arthritis and right sciatica.
What is Hotel Emma known for?
Hotel Emma, located at the Pearl in San Antonio, has become a popular spot for celebrities. Notably, Paul McCartney was seen there in October during his concert in the city, and New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson was spotted at the hotel on New Year’s Eve.
When is the Lakers’ next game?
The Los Angeles Lakers are scheduled to play their next game against the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday, January 9, 2026, at 7:30 PM PST.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| LeBron James’ Sighting | Spotted outside Hotel Emma in San Antonio on January 7, 2026, prior to the Lakers’ game against the Spurs. |
| James’ Game Status | Listed as out for the game against the Spurs due to left foot joint arthritis and right sciatica. |
| Hotel Emma’s Popularity | Known as a celebrity hotspot, with previous visits from Paul McCartney and Jalen Brunson. |
| Lakers’ Next Game | Scheduled against the Milwaukee Bucks on January 9, 2026, at 7:30 PM PST. |
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
