LeBron James, the iconic forward for the Los Angeles Lakers, recently shared insights about his future in the NBA, hinting that the 2025-26 season may mark the end of his illustrious career. As he approaches his 41st birthday on December 30, James acknowledges the reality of retirement while maintaining impressive performance levels on the court. Last season, he played 70 games, averaging 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists. While his scoring average has dipped slightly compared to his career highs, his contributions in rebounds and assists remain strong.
As the upcoming season unfolds, LeBron will don the number 23 jersey—an emblem of his storied career and a significant milestone in the basketball world. Currently tied with Vince Carter for the most seasons played in NBA history at 22, James is acutely aware that he is on the “other side of the hurdle.” In a candid conversation on the podcast “360 With Speedy,” he remarked, “I know I’m not going to play another 23 years, that’s for sure. And I’m not going to play another 10.”
Despite the impending conclusion of his playing days, LeBron is actively preparing for life beyond basketball. He has diversified his interests off the court, engaging in investments, philanthropy, and even pursuing his passion for golf—much to the amusement of his fellow NBA players. “Just because I start something new doesn’t mean I’m retiring,” he noted, emphasizing his commitment to finishing the current season strong.
This year, LeBron exercised his player option, securing a $52.6 million contract to remain with the Lakers for another season. However, this will be the first time in his career that he plays with an expiring contract, and he will not be the primary focus of the team. With Luka Doncic emerging as a cornerstone of the Lakers’ future, James will need to adapt to a supporting role, a significant shift for a player who has consistently been a franchise leader.
When discussing his legacy, LeBron’s career stands in a league of its own, often compared only to that of Michael Jordan. Both players are regarded as the greatest of all time, and the debate over their rankings continues among fans and analysts alike. Drafted as the number one pick in 2003, James has achieved remarkable success, including four championship titles—two with the Miami Heat, one with the Cleveland Cavaliers, and another with the Lakers during the COVID-19-affected season in Orlando. He has been named Finals MVP four times, selected for the All-Star Game 21 times, and currently holds the record as the NBA’s all-time leading scorer with 42,184 points.
LeBron has also played more minutes than any player in history, totaling over 59,041 minutes, and is just 49 games shy of Robert Parish’s record for most career games played. His accolades extend beyond the NBA, having earned Olympic gold medals with Team USA and fulfilling a personal dream by playing alongside his son, Bronny. To play with his younger son, Bryce, LeBron would need to remain active for two more seasons, as Bryce will be eligible for the 2026 draft.
As the ‘King James’ era winds down, fans are encouraged to savor every moment of his remaining games. The 2025-26 season might very well be LeBron’s last dance, and with each game, he continues to redefine the legacy of professional basketball.
In the ever-evolving landscape of the NBA, LeBron James remains a towering figure whose impact transcends the court. As he prepares for retirement, the basketball community reflects on his unparalleled contributions to the game, celebrating a career that has inspired millions and reshaped the sport’s narrative. Fans can expect an exciting season ahead, with LeBron poised to leave a lasting mark as he transitions into his next chapter.