As LeBron James gets ready for his 23rd year in the NBA, the volume on rumors about him concluding his basketball journey and retiring has grown louder.
James clarified his position recently on “360 With Speedy,” during his Nike promotional visit to China. When questioned about hanging up his jersey, he gave hints about ending his career shortly after observers noted his interest in golf as a new pastime.
“I’m not suggesting anything definitively,” James stated. “It’s quite clear that I’ve passed the peak, for certain. I won’t be around for another 23 years, and I certainly won’t play another 10. I am definitely getting ready for the eventual end, but I am not there at this time.”
At the age of 40, James’ NBA career span is longer than any other player’s in the league’s history, with the exception of Hall of Famer Vince Carter, who also had a 22-year run. Should James compete in the 2025-26 season, as anticipated, he will have played for a record-breaking 23 seasons, more than any other player to have ever taken the court in the NBA.
The number 23 has been an integral part of James’ time in the NBA. It is the number James has mainly worn; this upcoming season marks his 23rd, and his current tour of China promoting the “Forever King” campaign celebrates the forthcoming release of James’ 23rd Nike sneaker.
Although the four-time NBA champion and MVP has taken on new hobbies, he doesn’t seem prepared to retire his game shoes.
“Please understand that if I pick up a new activity, it doesn’t signify retirement,” James explained. “It’s just a new interest, a little hobby. However, retirement is approaching, no doubt about it. Just not yet.”
Even at 40, James remains among the NBA’s elite players and most recognizable celebrities. In the previous season, James averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per contest, with a 51.3% shooting efficiency from the field. Additionally, James made almost 37.6% of his 3-point attempts the prior year, his fourth-highest percentage to date, and participated in 70 games. James even secured sixth place in MVP voting during the last season.
Although the end is near for LeBron James’ reign in the NBA, he will still have the chance to craft more memorable moments as the league season resumes later in the month with the start of training camps.
