LeBron James spoke openly and honestly about what the future holds, but it looks like there are still few miles left in the tank.
Much of the focus surrounding the 39-year-old across the NBA All-Star Weekend concerned his future, with James quizzed about links with the Golden State Warriors.
James admitted that while retirement is close, there are no concrete plans as yet to call it a day.
LeBron James hopes to end his career with the Los Angeles Lakers, but has not ruled out another move away before retirement amid interest from the Golden State Warriors.
James was speaking to the media ahead of the 73rd NBA All-Star Game in Indianapolis and iterated his intention to remain with the Lakers.
“I’m a Laker and I’m happy and very happy to be a Laker for the last six years, and I hope it stays that way,” he said. “But the questions of how long this will last and what form it will take are unanswered.
I hope that happens with the Lakers too. It’s a great organization and there are a lot of great people. But we’ll see.”
The 39-year-old has previously been linked with a move to the Golden State Warriors, with ESPN reporting that owner Joe Lacob has inquired with Lakers teammate Jeannie Buss about a proposed deal.
“I actually heard it when everyone else heard it,” James added on TNT Sports’ Inside the NBA. “Sometimes conversations happen in secret without you even knowing. And I think they’ll bring it to you until it becomes a reality or it doesn’t. But it didn’t even occur to me.”
Whatever happens, it’s clear that LeBron is entering the twilight of his illustrious career. It remains to be seen whether the 39-year-old will finally get to see that day, as attention turns to how he will celebrate his final season in the NBA.
He added, “I was asked this question a few days ago.” “Are you going on a farewell tour, or are you going like Tim Duncan?” “I’m 50/50.
Because honestly, sometimes I feel like I owe it to my fans who have walked this path with me for over 20 years to be able to give them that moment.
In every city, for any occasion, they give you flowers or give you gifts for any occasion. awesome. “But I wasn’t very good at accepting compliments. It’s a strange feeling to me.”
“It’s going to be a strange feeling for everyone involved in the NBA. “I don’t know how it will end, but it’s getting closer. This will definitely happen.” James’ more immediate goal now is to lead the Lakers to the playoffs, and he is committed to playing for Team USA at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
“When I decided to be part of the Olympic team before the season started, I told myself that it would all depend on my health,” he explained. “As it stands, I am healthy enough to be in the team and perform at the level I am capable of.”