LeBron James forged strong bonds with his former teammates. He continues to root for them after their NBA careers, as well as those still playing in the league. The Los Angeles Lakers star reacted to the news that J.R. Smith is set to graduate this spring from North Carolina A&T State University.

James posted his message for Smith on his Instagram story on Wednesday. He reposted Smith’s photos from Slam Magazine, wearing his mortarboard.

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The two-time NBA champion earned a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies. The commencement ceremonies are set for Saturday.

“SOOOOO PROUD OF YOU @teamswish !!!! 👏🏾👏🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🫡,” James wrote.

Smith last played in the league in 2020. He won his second ring with Los Angeles during the COVID-19 season.

LeBron James and J.R. Smith won two championships together

James and Smith played together from 2015 to 2018 with the Cleveland Cavaliers and in 2020 with the Lakers. They won two championships and remain close friends.

Smith had a successful NBA career, winning the NBA Sixth Man of the Year award twice. He pursued his college degree in 2021 and qualified to play for the Aggies’ golf team. The former swingman was named North Carolina A&T Academic Athlete of the Year in 2022.

Meanwhile, James continues to play at an elite level, leading Los Angeles to the Western Conference semifinals. He is looking to win his fifth championship this year, but the Oklahoma City Thunder stand in his team’s way.