With LeBron James still going strong at age 41 in the NBA, many are wondering whether the Los Angeles Lakers superstar will retire after his latest season ends.
He’s currently in his 23rd season and continues to prove he can compete with today’s best and youngest players in the league. Playing alongside a talent like Luka Doncic certainly helps, and after missing a stretch of games to begin this season, James has participated in 36 of his team’s games.
The Lakers’ phenomenon has often mentioned his age affects how he feels after games, but it hasn’t deterred him from continuing to suit up and play the sport he loves. However, other greats before him also loved the game and eventually announced their retirements.
With his record 22nd NBA All-Star Game approaching Sunday night, King James was asked another question about his retirement decision. Based on his answer, he still hasn’t decided when he’ll retire or whether he’ll even make that decision at any point during or after the season.
“I don’t know. I have no idea. I just want to live. That’s all,” James said, per ESPN’s Dave McMenamin.
“When I know, you guys will know,” the Lakers star also said before the 2026 All-Star Game.
The Lakers currently hold a 33-21 record in the Western Conference standings, having won six of their last 10 games. Many critics have suggested that it might be wise for the Lakers to discuss a trade involving LeBron so they can improve upon their chances at building a championship roster around their new franchise star, Luka Doncic.
James currently averages 22 points with a 50.2 field goal percentage, 7.1 assists, and 5.8 rebounds per game. Those stats are impressive for most players, let alone a veteran NBA player in his 23rd season. Still, an official end to LeBron’s legendary career in the NBA will come at some point.
Most likely, James is growing tired of being asked the question and is not even considering the decision, instead enjoying basketball. Once he retires, he certainly won’t be lacking for ways to spend his extra time, as King James has many off-court priorities in his personal life, brand, and businesses, much like other retired greats before him.
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