LeBron James, one of the most iconic figures in NBA history, is inching closer to the conclusion of his extraordinary career.
Regarded as one of the greatest NBA players that has ever graced the sport, LeBron has never committed to a specific timeline for retirement. On his 40th birthday, ge offered a glimpse into his future.
What did LeBron say?
“If I really wanted to, I could probably play this game at a high level probably for about another — it’s weird that I might say this — but probably about another five to seven years, if I wanted to,” James shared with reporters. “But I’m not going to do that. I won’t walk away and come back,” he said. (Unlike Michael Jordan)
At this stage, James appears to be taking things one season at a time. His current contract with the Los Angeles Lakers runs through the 2025-26 season, but with a player option after the 2024-25 season, he has the flexibility to evaluate his circumstances annually.
Despite his year-to-year approach, James has expressed a desire to finish his career with the Lakers. However, he stopped short of making any firm commitments.
“I think that’s the plan,” James stated. “I would love for it to end here. That would be the plan. I came here to play the last stage of my career and to finish it off here. But I’m also not silly or too jaded to know the business of the game as well, to know the business of basketball. But I think my relationship with this organization speaks for itself. And hopefully, I don’t got to go nowhere before my career is over.”
As James continues to defy time with his on-court performances, fans are left to savor every remaining moment of his legendary career. While the exact timing of his farewell remains uncertain, his legacy is already firmly cemented in basketball history.
James has helped the Lakers to an 18-13 record in 2024/25, which is good for fifth in the Western Conference. Their next game? A home game against none other than LeBron’s hometown Cavaliers, who boast the NBA’s best record at 27-4.
