The Los Angeles Lakers were eliminated from the NBA Playoffs Monday, and LeBron James is once again getting denied another title. The Oklahoma City Thunder swept the Lakers, by winning Game 4 115-110. Following the game, James was asked by reporters about his possible retirement.
While James isn't committing to anything at this moment, he did indicate that one thing could cause him to step away from basketball.
“The love of the game is always there. I don't think it ever goes away. … But the process to me has always been so much more important. Because if I fell out of love with the process, then I'd probably fall out of love with the game,” James said, per ESPN.
Los Angeles battled in the NBA Playoffs, defeating the Houston Rockets in a series before bowing to Oklahoma City. James is nearing the end of his NBA career, but it isn't certain if he has played his last game.
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In Game 4 against the Thunder, James scored 24 points and grabbed 12 rebounds. He helped carry L.A. through the postseason, following an injury to fellow Lakers star Luka Doncic. James even got to run the floor in the playoffs alongside his son, Bronny, who also plays for the Lakers.
Now in his 40s, James still plays with the same passion and drive that he has always had. He tried to explain to the news media why that is.
“Just being able to compete, and find a way to win championships, I think that is a motivating factor,” James said postgame, per The Athletic.
Time will tell what James decides to do, and if he has played for the last time in the NBA.
The Los Angeles Lakers were eliminated from the NBA Playoffs Monday, and LeBron James is once again getting denied another title. The Oklahoma City Thunder swept the Lakers, by winning Game 4 115-110. Following the game, James was asked by reporters about his possible retirement.