LeBron James Savours 23rd NBA Season As Retirement Looms

LeBron James stated on Monday that he hasn’t yet decided when he will retire from basketball, as he prepares to become the first player in NBA history to play a 23rd season in the league.

The Los Angeles

Lakers superstar shared his thoughts at a media day, expressing his excitement about another season in the league alongside Luka Doncic and a strengthened roster.

James, who will turn 41 in December, intends to enjoy every moment of the final phase of his illustrious career that spans three decades.

However, the four-time NBA champion and all-time points scorer admits he is uncertain about his retirement date.

“I’m excited about today, I’m excited about the opportunity to play the game I love for another season,” James said to reporters.

“Whatever this year’s journey brings, I’m fully committed because I don’t know when the end will be. It’s sooner rather than later.

“I’m truly grateful to be here for another media day and to talk to you all.”

James, who averaged 24.4 points per game last season, remarked that his passion for basketball and his desire to keep improving remain strong.

“The thing still driving me is my undiminished love for the game and an even greater love for the process,” he stated.

“It’s simple – I enjoy training, working on my body, and trying to get as close to 100% as possible each year. It’s a beautiful experience for me…The NBA season is like a roller coaster, but regardless of the highs, lows, and challenges, I still love the process.

“Personally, I love playing the game and performing at a high level. Age is just a number. Few players at my age, especially entering year 23, can play at this level. I don’t take it for granted.”

Last season, the Lakers made headlines by acquiring Luka Doncic in a surprising trade with the Dallas Mavericks.

James mentioned that the opportunity to play alongside the Slovenian star after a full training camp – instead of adapting mid-season last year – is another motivating factor for his 23rd season.

“The motivation to play alongside him every night is incredibly inspiring,” James said. “It’s going to prepare my body for every game, striving to be the best player I can be for him. We’ll build off each other.”

Besides a full training camp with Doncic, James is also looking forward to starting the new season with a team strengthened by the arrivals of veteran guard Marcus Smart and centre DeAndre Ayton.

“I’m excited to get to work and see what we can achieve,” James remarked.

Doncic, meanwhile, expressed his hope that a complete pre-season with James and the Lakers squad will make the 17-time NBA champions a more consistent and formidable team.

“When you join a new team mid-season, it’s challenging to integrate everything,” Doncic said. “But a pre-season will greatly help with leadership and getting to know the players. I’m very excited – I believe we can accomplish great things.”

(With AFP Inputs)