The NBA’s all-time scorer, four MVP and 20 All-Stars are preparing for their 23rd NBA season that no one has ever done before. Resignation questions continue to pop up around him, but the 40-year-old Los Angeles Lakers superstar focuses on one thing.
And yes, his knees are doing “good” things, he says.
After spraining ligaments during the Lakers’ final playoff game against the Minnesota Timberwolves in April, James spent the offseason prioritizing recovery. “We have plenty of time to get healthy, get strong and get back close to 100%,” James said in an interview with the Associated Press. Training camp will begin in late September and he is set to be ready.
Still hungry, still here
Despite everything he accomplished, James has not lost his love for grind. He still lives in early morning shootarounds, film sessions, and long practices. “I haven’t lost that edge,” he said.
And he’s busy from the court too. In addition to starring in the new Amazon Prime Day commercial “What’s next?”James runs and co-hosses men’s grooming lines Beware of the game A podcast with NBA legend Steve Nash.
The ad playfully nods to the resignation rumours, but James makes one thing clear. He’s still trapped in the game.
First, family, always
James believes in his family his lasting motivations. His wife, Savannah and their three children remain his biggest cheerleaders.
“Dad, continue your dreams. This is your dream. We have your back,” James says, quoting his child. Such support will make it easier to continue, he adds.
And what a dream: share the NBA court with his son Bronnie. He’s now a rookie on the Lakers roster. He also watches his young son Bryce prepare for college basketball at the University of Arizona, and his daughter, Zuri, is making waves with volleyball.
Looking ahead, not too far
James holds over $56 million player options next season, but money isn’t the only factor. “You think about the end,” he admitted. “Is this year? Next year? That’s human nature. But I don’t have a set timeline. I listen to my body and my family.”
He even drew on the possibility that he would stick long enough to play with draft-qualified Blythe in 2026. “That’s insane,” he said with a smile.
Things for history books
When James wears the suit next season, he will become the first player in NBA history to play 23 seasons. Last year he averaged an impressive 24.4 points, 8.2 assists and 7.8 rebounds per game. Obviously there is still gas left in the tank.
One thing is for sure as training camp approaches and fans wonder how long “King James” will reign. He has not written his legacy yet.
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