Prior to the Cleveland Cavaliers’ 90-82 victory over the visiting New Orleans Pelicans, there was a moment of acknowledgment between LeBron James and Pelicans PG Jrue Holiday. James went over before the tip-off to give him a pat on the back and words of encouragement for the difficult past few months Holiday and his family had to endure.
Holiday’s wife, former U.S women’s soccer player Lauren Holiday, had brain surgery in October to remove a tumor – just a few weeks after giving birth to the couple’s first child. In light of the sensitive situation, Jrue Holiday took a 12-game absence to care for his wife and daughter, a hiatus in which the Pelicans supported and accommodated. While both Lauren and their child are safe and Jrue has returned to the lineup, that did not stop LeBron from recognizing the situation and offering kind words.
“This is a brotherhood, no matter if you’re on the same team or not, this is a fraternity,” James said following the game, according to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin. ”Anytime someone’s family is going through a situation like that, you just hope the greater God above is looking out for him. So, I couldn’t wait to actually see him today.”
Holiday was very receptive to James’ words, despite not having much of a relationship to LeBron.
“To know that this league and somebody of his caliber and the effect he has on the game like he does and can really have support for my family is awesome,” Holiday told ESPN. “My wife is doing really well and she’s gradually getting better, and that’s all I can ask for. She’s alive, and I’m blessed for that. My daughter is OK. So, I’m happy.”
Jrue Holiday went on to have a solid game for the Pelicans with 11 points, four rebounds, three steals, and a game-high 13 assists. His continued improvement will be crucial to New Orleans’ season as they aim to climb into the Western Conference playoff picture.
