As LeBron James prepares for his 23rd NBA season, speculation about retirement will only grow louder and louder. But during his Nike “Forever King” journey in China, the 40-year-old Lakers star made it clear that he hasn't finished yet.
“I have no hints,” James said quickly at 360. “Obviously, I know I'm definitely on the other side of the hump. Come on now, I won't play for another 23 years, that's damn, and I won't play another 10. I'll definitely work to the finish line, I haven't.”
Most of the recent chats have been sparking rumors after fans noticed that James spent most of his time on the golf course, and his new hobby meant it was over. James quickly clarified.
“Listen, every time I pick up something new, it doesn't mean retirement,” he explained. “It's just something I want to do, just a little hobby. But retirement is coming, coming. It's not here yet.”
Even with twenty years behind him, James is still the elite of the game. Last season, he averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds and 8.2 assists per game, contributing 51.3% on 51.3% of the field goal percentage. He also connected nearly 37.6% of his 3-pointers with three-pointers, the fourth largest point in his career, and appeared in 70 games at the same time. His performance won his sixth place in the MVP vote.
If James fits into the 2025-26 campaign, it will mark his 23rd season, more than any player in NBA history. The only long-time play was Hall of Fame member Vince Carter, who recorded for 22 years. For James, the number 23 continues to have meaning, from his jersey number to the upcoming No. 23 Nike sneakers to this milestone season.
James knew the ending was coming, but not yet. “I'm sure I'm going to be ready to the end,” he said. “I'm not there yet.”
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