On Monday, LeBron James celebrated his 40th birthday.
Speaking with the media after Lakers practice, the NBA legend reflected on his career and future, confidently stating he could continue playing basketball at a high level for another five to seven years—if he wanted to.
“It won’t be because I can’t play this game at a high level,” James said about his eventual retirement. “To be honest, if I really wanted to, I could probably play this game at a high level probably about another — it’s weird that I might say this — but probably about another five to seven years if I wanted to.
“But I’m not going to do that.”
“ If I wanted to, I could play this game at a high level for another 5 to 7 years.”
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) December 30, 2024
– LeBron James
(🎥 @swishcultures_ )
pic.twitter.com/eH96CwjwZM
James also made it clear that once he decides to retire, he won’t be pulling a Michael Jordan-style comeback. When he walks away from the game, it will be for good.
Playing at an elite level into his mid-to-late 40s might seem improbable, but so is averaging 23.5 points, nine assists, and 7.9 rebounds at age 40, as James is doing this season. If anyone could redefine the limits of longevity in professional basketball, it’s LeBron James.
James also spoke about his desire to finish his career with the Los Angeles Lakers, the third team he’s played for during his illustrious career.
“I think that’s the plan. I would love for it to end here,” he said. “That would be the plan. I came here to play my 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, know the business of the game of basketball. But, I think my relationship with this organization speaks for itself. Hopefully, I don’t have to go nowhere before my career is over.”
James is under contract with the Lakers through the 2026 offseason, thanks to a two-year, $101.5 million deal that includes a player option for next season. He also has a no-trade clause, giving him full control over his immediate future in the league.
