How long can LeBron James continue to play top-level basketball? – The 40-year-old NBA icon shares his thoughts
LeBron James marked his 40th birthday on Monday with gratitude and optimism about his future with the Los Angeles Lakers. Despite being in the later years of his career, James continues to play at a high level, and when asked about his retirement plans, he was open about his thoughts.
“If I really wanted to, I could probably play this game at a high level for about another five or seven years,” James said. “But I’m not going to do that.” He acknowledged that his time in the NBA is winding down, but he’s still a major contributor for the Lakers, averaging 23.5 points, 9.0 assists, and 7.9 rebounds this season.
James, who is now in his 22nd season, is one of the longest-tenured players in NBA history, with only Vince Carter playing longer. Still, the 40-year-old superstar feels fortunate to be playing at such a high level at his age. “It’s kind of laughable, really, to know where I am,” James said. “It’s pretty cool to think back to when I was 18, and now I’m here at 40.”
As he continues to dominate, James will join a select group of players who have played in the NBA after turning 40 when he faces the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday. He reflected on how quickly time has passed, saying, “I had a decade of the 30s, so to just wake up and be like, ‘Oh shoot, oh damn, you’re 40?’”
James also made history earlier this season when he and his son, Bronny, became the first father and son duo to play in the NBA together. It’s moments like these that highlight the passing of time for the basketball legend.
Looking ahead, James feels positive about the Lakers’ chances this season, though he believes they are not yet at championship level. “We have so much room to improve,” he said, following a recent trade that added veteran defenders Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton to the roster.
Despite his success, James isn’t focused on playing beyond Los Angeles. “I would love for it to end here,” he said of his career with the Lakers. “I came here to play the last stage of my career and to finish it off here.” However, he understands the business side of the game and remains realistic about his future.
As he continues to age gracefully in the NBA, it’s clear that LeBron James still has a passion for the game, though he knows his career is nearing its end. Fans will eagerly watch how long this basketball icon continues to play at such an elite level.
