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Los Angeles Lakers
Aug 18, 2025 5:15 PM EDT
LeBron James enters the 2025-26 NBA season (his 23rd) as a 21-time All-Star, four-time NBA champion, four-time league MVP and the NBA’s all-time leading scorer.
Last year, he averaged 24.4 points, 8.2 assists and 7.8 rebounds per game for the Los Angeles Lakers, who missed the Western Conference Finals after a second-round playoff exit.
While still producing at an elite level, James’ future has been a subject of speculation. He exercised his player option to remain with the Lakers, but offseason reports have hinted at underlying tension as the franchise pivots toward newly acquired star Luka Doncic.
For now, however, James remains committed to Los Angeles — and to his new hobby.
On Monday, Kevin Love, James’ former teammate and good friend, posted on Instagram with a mix of personal snapshots and familiar faces, but one short video drew the most attention.
In it, James is seen teeing up on a golf course, taking another swing that has quickly become a recurring talking point among fans.
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Fans were quick to make their voices heard on James’ golf swing.
“Bron’s swing is an absolute thing of beauty,” said one user.
“LBJ gotta chill 😂,” another fan replied.
“LeBron’s swing is the worst thing I’ve seen,” one other user remarked.
“You have the best posts!” commented another fan.
“Lebron addicted to golf is real 😂,” said one other user.
“You both look great @katelove absolutely gorgeous 🙌🏼
@kevinlove you really need to talk with @kingjames about his ⛳️ swing 😂🤦🏼♀️,” another fan replied.
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) brings the ball up court — Source: © Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
LeBron James Golf Debut and Viral Swing
James’ golf journey became public on July 4, when he posted a video that showed him hitting shots, his unrefined swing drawing comparisons to Charles Barkley’s famously awkward form.
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The golf world immediately took notice.
Former PGA Tour winner Jordan Spieth offered swing tips, while Stephen Curry playfully impersonated James’ follow-through at the American Century Championship, turning the clips into a light offseason storyline.
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Since then, James has posted multiple clips, including one in the Dominican Republic where he played through heavy rain and formally admitted to being “addicted” to the game.
James’ newfound love for golf mirrors a path taken by other NBA greats, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant and Curry, among them, who have turned to the sport as both a competitive outlet and a lifestyle pursuit.
James, now entering the twilight of his playing career, seems serious about pursuing this new challenge.
About the Author
Rowan Fisher-Shotton
Trending News Writer, Athlon Sports
Rowan Fisher-Shotton is a contributing writer to the Athlon Sports trending and breaking news team.