LeBron James, one of the most recognizable athletes in history, faces a pivotal moment as he enters the 2025-26 NBA season. Now 40, LeBron is preparing for his 23rd season in the league after exercising his player option, the final year of a two-year, 104 million dollar deal with the Los Angeles Lakers. He openly acknowledges that retirement is on the horizon, saying in a recent interview, "I'm preparing for the end. Retirement is coming, but I'm not there yet." Despite the looming possibility of farewell, his on-court performance remains exceptional—last season he played 70 games, averaging 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists, maintaining elite production even as he nears his 41st birthday[1][3].

This upcoming season carries even more significance as LeBron steps onto the court for his 23rd campaign, a symbolic number in basketball and the one emblazoned on his own jersey—a number long associated with greatness due in part to Michael Jordan. No other player has sustained both longevity and productivity at this level. With the retirement of peers like Vince Carter after 22 seasons, LeBron stands alone, further solidifying his place among sports legends.

Off the court, LeBron’s interests are expanding. Philanthropy, investments, golf, and yoga fill his time beyond basketball. However, he stresses that pursuing new ventures doesn't mean retirement is imminent. Persistent rumors have swirled about LeBron’s future, especially as his eldest son Bronny entered the NBA in 2024. Now, speculation grows that LeBron aims to stay long enough to play alongside his younger son Bryce, with NBA executives suggesting he may delay retirement for a chance to share the court with both his sons—a feat never seen in league history[5].

LeBron’s career and global impact have often drawn comparisons to the greatest figures not just in basketball but in all of sports, akin to how Terence Crawford's historic boxing triumphs have prompted analysts to discuss him in the same breath as Michael Jordan and LeBron himself[2][6]. This enduring excellence and cultural influence place LeBron firmly in the pantheon of all-time great athletes.

While fans brace for the closing chapters of his career, LeBron’s commitment, resilience, and love for the game remain unchanged."I know I'm on the other side of the hurdle. I'm not going to play another 23 years, that's for sure. And I'm not going to play another 10," he noted in a recent podcast conversation, with the unmistakable tone of an athlete mindful of his place in history and the passage of time[1].

Whether this is LeBron James’ final season or not, his contributions on and off the court have changed the landscape of basketball, setting benchmarks in longevity, versatility, and leadership that may stand for decades to come.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI