As LeBron James embarks on his 23rd NBA season at the age of 40, speculation about his future continues to swirl. The Los Angeles Lakers superstar remains a pivotal figure in basketball, but discussions around retirement are becoming increasingly common. Recent insights from ESPN insider Brian Windhorst, who has covered James since his high school days in Akron, suggest that the King is far from slowing down.
Windhorst, speaking on ‘The Hoop Collective’ podcast, emphasized that as long as James stays healthy, there are no signs of decline in his performance. He praised James for maintaining a high level of play, which has led some analysts, including Tim Bontemps, to classify him as a top-10 to 15 player in the league despite his age.
James has made headlines not just for his on-court prowess but also for his recent decision to opt into the 2025-26 season for $52.6 million. This move solidifies his commitment to the Lakers and marks a historic milestone, making him the first player in NBA history to play 23 seasons. Last season, he averaged an impressive 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per game while shooting 37.6% from beyond the arc—statistics that rival those of players half his age.
Off the court, LeBron’s ambitions extend beyond basketball. His long-time business partner, Maverick Carter, has reportedly been in discussions about launching a “global basketball circuit” that would feature international host cities and divisions for both men and women. While this proposal has sparked rumors about James potentially leaving the NBA, sources indicate that there has been no formal offer for him to exit the league. Concerns regarding competitive balance, economics, and consumer demand remain unresolved.
James has consistently expressed his desire to play alongside his son, Bronny, describing it as his “No. 1 achievement” in basketball. When asked about retirement, he downplayed age as a factor, stating, “I feel young every time I get on the court… it’s about that victory.”
Despite the rumors and speculation surrounding his future, all indications point to LeBron James continuing his storied career with the Lakers at an elite level. While retirement chatter is inevitable for a player of his age, James is determined to demonstrate that his legacy is still being written. As he prepares for another season, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how he continues to defy expectations and shape the future of the NBA.