LeBron James says the support of his family — especially the chance to play with his sons — is motivating him to extend his career, though he ruled out playing in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James just finished his 22nd NBA season, but what's next for him?
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LeBron is expected to return for his 23rd season, which would make him the first player in NBA history to reach that milestone. And family is the main reason why.
James credits the constant support of his wife, Savannah, and their three kids as a major driving force.
He's inspired by the chance to share the court with his oldest son, Bronny, who also plays for the Lakers; to watch Bryce start his college career at the University of Arizona; and to cheer on Zhuri as she pursues volleyball.
"They're like, 'Dad, continue on your dream. This is your dream. Continue on your focus. You've been here for us this whole time,'" James told Jonathan Landrum Jr. of The Associated Press. "When you have that type of support... it makes it a lot easier."
LeBron mentioned it would be "insane" if he kept playing long enough to share the court with his son, Bryce, who will be draft-eligible in 2026.
"At this point of my career, you think about when the end is. That's human nature," he said. "You think: Is it this year? Or next year? Those thoughts always creep into your mind at this point of the journey. But I have not given it a specific timetable or date. I'm seeing how my body and family react, too."
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That said, the 40-year-old legend confirmed he won't be playing in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, held in his home country.
"Nothing has changed. ... I mean, if I had to look at it right now through a microscope, I would say that, me being able to support Team USA for the rest of my life — that's for sure. But me actually going on and playing, I don't see it happening," James told Tony Maglio of Hollywood Reporter.
"I've given everything that I have, and I will always be appreciative and loyal and dedicated to Team USA and USA Basketball."
James is expected to opt into his $54 million player option and return to the LA Lakers for the 2025-26 season, though his final decision is still pending ahead of the June 29 deadline.
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