Basketball fans around the world thought that LeBron James might take retirement after losing the Western Conference Finals last year. However, James surprised many by deciding to return for his 21st NBA season.
On media day, James offered clarity about his decision to continue playing. He credited the progress made by the Lakers under Coach Darvin Ham and General Manager Rob Pelinka as a major reason.
“The job that Coach Ham and Rob did inspired me,” James said. “We got a really good team and did a great job in the summer.”
“The job that Coach Ham and Rob did inspired me… we got a really good team and did a great job in the summer.”
-LeBron on why he chose not to retire pic.twitter.com/LieMiXd3Gf
— LakeShowYo (@LakeShowYo) October 2, 2023
Even though LeBron is nearing the end of his legendary career, his statistics are still impressive. Averaging 28.9 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 6.8 assists last season, he clearly proved that age is just a number for him. Over the summer, he made a successful recovery from a foot injury, which further highlights his status in the game.
Will LeBron James sign a new contract in the NBA?
LeBron’s future in the NBA after this season remains a mystery. When asked about the possibility of this being his last season, LeBron answered it cleverly and maintained the uncertainty.
“I don’t know. I don’t know. I can’t (expand on that) because I don’t know. I’m happy right now,” James Said. “I’m excited. Looking forward to tomorrow and getting the training camp going. I don’t know what the end of this road looks like or at the end of the season. I have no idea.”
“I don’t know. I’m happy right now, I’m excited… I don’t know what the end of this road look like or at the end of the season. I have no idea.”
LeBron James when asked if this could be his last season in the NBA 🗣 pic.twitter.com/9wfErmRO4c
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) October 2, 2023
One major motivation for LeBron to remain in the NBA is the potential opportunity to share the court with his eldest son, Bronny James. After completing four years at Sierra Canyon School, Bronny is set to play college basketball at USC for the 2023-24 season. According to the NBA rules, he will be eligible for the 2024 Draft.
LeBron, who last year agreed to a two-year, $97.1 million contract extension with the Lakers through the 2024-25 season, so it’s possible to play alongside his son. If he plays until then, LeBron would tie Vince Carter’s record of playing 22 NBA seasons. Given his enduring passion for the sport and physical condition, it’s likely that he could aim for another contract and surpass Carter’s record.
The Lakers also seem prepared for their future. Anthony Davis’ who recently signed a 3-year $186 million contract extension through 2028 shows that the Lakers want to build the team around Davis in the future. Whether LeBron chooses to be a part of this journey remains to be seen.