LeBron James was honored Wednesday night after being named the 2012 Sports Illustrated “Sportsman of the Year” on Monday. Arguably the best athlete of this generation, the eight-time NBA All-Star had an incredible year that included being named the NBA’s Most Valuable Player (his third time), winning his first NBA championship, the Finals MVP, and a gold medal with Team USA at the 2012 London Olympics.

The 27-year-old was presented with the prestigious award during a ceremony at New York City’s Espace, where good friends Jay-Z and Beyoncé came out to show support. The couple arrived quietly and sat front row as legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski presented James with his “Sportsman of the Year” trophy. Later, the couple along with LeBron’s fiancee Savannah Brinson posed on stage for photos. Safe to say the celebrating will be kept to a minimum as King James and the Miami Heat host the New York Knicks on Thursday night.

Check out some photos from the event below…..

Photo Credit: Getty Images

Previously: Jay-Z & Beyoncé Attend the New York Knicks vs. Brooklyn Nets Game