Patryk Stachowiak
LeBron James has reported for his 23rd NBA training camp, and if fans were expecting a farewell tour, they’ll have to wait. The NBA’s all-time leading scorer is showing no signs of slowing down as he prepares for another run with the Los Angeles Lakers, this time alongside Luka Dončić in a revamped roster built for contention.
Still Focused, Still Hungry
Speaking at the Lakers’ media day in El Segundo, James brushed aside any talk of retirement:
“I’m excited about the opportunity to play the game that I love for another season. However the journey lays out this year, I’m super-invested, because I don’t know when the end is. I know it’s a lot sooner than later.”
At 41 this December, James will make history as the first player to feature in 23 NBA seasons when the Lakers tip off against the Golden State Warriors on October 21.
Family First, But Basketball Always
James has the rare privilege of sharing the court with his oldest son, Bronny, now a backup guard on the Lakers roster. His second son, Bryce, has just begun his college career at the University of Arizona. While the possibility of one day playing alongside both sons excites fans, James insists he isn’t plotting that far ahead.
“I’m not waiting on Bryce”
he joked.
“He has his own timeline, I’ve got mine. We’ll see what happens.”
LeBron James. Source: rtp.pt
Legacy Meets Longevity
Last season, James proved age is just a number. He averaged 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds across 70 games while earning his 21st consecutive All-NBA selection. Few athletes in history have managed this kind of consistency, particularly in their third decade of competition.
“It’s pretty cool to know how many miles I’ve got and still be able to play at a high level”
James said.
“I just try not to take it for granted and inspire whoever I can.”
Chasing One More Ring
The Lakers enter this season with a reshaped roster after a turbulent 2023-24 campaign. Anthony Davis was dealt midseason for Dončić, and the Lakers still managed 50 wins and a Pacific Division title. But a first-round playoff exit to Minnesota left James demanding more from the front office. This summer, they delivered: Deandre Ayton, Marcus Smart, and Jake LaRavia now bolster the squad.
“I’m excited about getting to work”
James said.
“And I’m excited to see what we can do.”
No Timeline, Just Titles
With four championships and countless records already secured, James could easily call time on his career tomorrow and walk away as one of the greatest ever. But for now, his focus is firmly on the present: building a contender in Los Angeles and giving himself at least one more shot at NBA glory.
Retirement? That’s a question for another day. For LeBron James, the only number that matters this season isn’t 41 — it’s 5, the number of rings he’s still chasing.