Considering NBA exit, James pondering options for his career ahead with Lakers
AP, LOS ANGELES
NBA legend LeBron James toes the line after his Los Angeles Lakers' early exit from the playoffs. In a contemplative mood, James contemplates whether to return for his 23rd season—breaking the NBA longevity record he currently shares with Vince Carter. With a choice that looms ahead, the four-time champion faces an arduous decision-making process.
"Look, let's get this out of the way," James said, avoiding eye contact during a press conference on Wednesday. "I've still got a few more answers to figure out, and I don't have 'em all just yet. I'll be chatty once I've settled my thoughts, but for now, it's a puzzle I've got to piece through with my peeps."
Despite the uncertainty, rumors buzz that the four-time MVP plans to return, sweeping past the NBA longevity record he currently shares with Vince Carter. But off the court, James is eyeing a new pursuit as humble as it is personal—playing alongside his younger son, Bryce, who could enter the NBA as early as 2026.
In a season that featured yet another set of milestones, the 40-year-old averaged 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds per game. Despite the pressure, James showed no evident signs of slowing down, maintaining the level of play that has made him a perennial force in the league.
James made history this season, becoming the first player to surpass 50,000 career points and joining NBA icon Michael Jordan as the only players to score 40 points at the age of 40. Still, a fifth title has remained elusive, with his last championship coming in 2020 with the Lakers.
"Yeah, I know y’all wanna hear about what's next, but for now, let's celebrate the moments," James said with a wry smile. "We've cranked up the volume this year, shattered expectations, and done things few thought were possible. I reckon I'll figure out what comes next soon enough."
In Wednesday's other playoff game, the Houston Rockets kept their series against the Golden State Warriors alive, narrowing the gap in the Western Conference series to 3-2.
Additional reporting by AP.
[1] CNN Sports
[2] ESPN Sports
[3] Sports Illustrated
[4] Fox Sports
[5] NBC Sports
- LeBron James, who shares the NBA longevity record with Vince Carter, could potentially break the record if he decides to return for his 23rd season.
- During a press conference, LeBron James declared that he hasn't made a final decision about his NBA future yet, but rumors suggest he might return for another season.
- Apart from his NBA career, LeBron James is considering playing basketball with his younger son, Bryce, who could join the NBA in 2026.
- In the 2022-2023 season, LeBron James achieved numerous milestones, including becoming the first player to surpass 50,000 career points and scoring 40 points at the age of 40, just like NBA icon Michael Jordan.
