“King James:” A tale of friendship, basketball and fandom at Detroit Public Theatre

May 15, 2026

As the Detroit Pistons take on the Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA playoffs, Detroit Public Theatre is closing its season with a timely production.

“King James” is a comedy that follows the lives and friendship of two Cavaliers fans over 12 years, from LeBron James’ rookie season to the Cavs’ 2016 championship win.

It’s a story about the ups and downs of sports fandom and how friendships change through adulthood.

One Detroit’s Chris Jordan interviewed the play’s director, Courtney Burkett, and its two leads, Mateo Davis and Alexander Pobutsky.

“King James” runs through June 7.

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