LeBron James’ birthday falls on the same day as Tiger Woods, in a strange coincidence. But LeBron James’ birthday will be easier to celebrate than Tiger’s. For one thing, James will be playing on his birthday against the Hawks, while Woods continues to seclude himself from scandal. However, as LeBron James faces his 25′th birthday, things will not be the same for him when he turns 26 – one way or the other.

For everything he has done, and not done, ‘The King’ is only 25 today. It feels like he’s been older, since this is his seventh year in the NBA. Of course, he started his career early, and with excessive expectations – and has met all but one.

LeBron James’ birthday comes as the Cavaliers near the halfway point of the season. So far, they lead their division, but are fighting once more with the Celtics, Magic and Hawks for Eastern Conference domination. James has his usual numbers, but his numbers in May and June will be more important.

By the time he turns 26, James may or may not finally be a champion – and may or may not still be in Cleveland. For all his accomplishments, he has never won a championship, and no one knows if he can do it with the Cavaliers. With free agency approaching after this season, the biggest story of the summer should be where he plays in 2010 – whether its in Cleveland or not. Much of it likely depends on the next six months.

This is James’ seventh season, which was when Michael Jordan began to win his titles. If another year goes by in which Cleveland falls short, it may be more tempting for ‘The King’ to go to another palace. Of course, if the Knicks wind up getting James, as they’ve been planning to for years, then his chances for a championship would decrease.

When LeBron James’ birthday comes next year, he will probably be the richest man in basketball, depending on his next contract. But his legacy will have more lasting importance, as he knows well. If he doesn’t have a title by 26, and is with another team next year, then there will be a lot of uncertainty around him.