“I’m going to use all my tools, my god-given ability, and make the best life I can with it.” LeBron James adopted this philosophy early on and used it to carve out a path for himself. Today, he stands as one of the most recognizable NBA players of the modern generation, having established records that others could only dream of reaching. Just a few weeks shy of his 40 birthday, one question is on everyone’s mind: When will he retire? From the looks of it, not anytime in the foreseeable future.
After the Lakers’ 123-108 win against the Toronto Raptors, the player engaged in a Q&A session with a few media members. Comparing himself to a car, LeBron stated how he has accumulated so many ‘miles.’ Despite this, he continues to have no problem ‘getting up and down the highway.’ Even after two decades, he revealed going the extra mile, arriving at the court four hours prior to the commencement of a game to get in some practice before the crowds arrive and the arena becomes lively. LeBron revealed knowing his limitations, but the time to quit isn’t now.
“I’ve been blessed by the man above with some, some ‘Outers World’ ability from the beginning, and then I just take full advantage of it,” said LeBron. “I wasn’t going to disrespect what He’s given me, and see how long I can do it. But I won’t do it till the wheels fall off, I’ll tell you that. I won’t do that, I won’t be one of those guys.”
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The remarks come just as LeBron James’ eldest son, Bronny, began dividing his time between the main league and the Lakers affiliate in the G League, aka the South Bay Lakers. For several years, LeBron had expressed a wish to play alongside his son in the NBA. The 4x champion told ESPN reporter Dave McMenamin back in January 2023 that he wanted to wait to retire until he was able to play with Bronny. Back then, the young star was finishing his freshman season at USC.
After a cardiac arrest scare, and fearing that his poor college stats wouldn’t be enough, the Lakers eventually drafted Bronny, and the James duo became the first father-son pair to play in an NBA regular season game together. With the wish fulfilled, LeBron may soon start thinking about a future that doesn’t revolve around the basketball court.
However, the NBA All-Time Leading Scorer made it clear that he won’t think of quitting until the “wheels fall off.” Looking at his performances during the ongoing season, there doesn’t seem to be any chance of that happening soon. If looking for a more recent example, then just needs to look at the 19 points, 10 rebounds, and 16 assists he recorded against the Raptors a few hours ago. Ironically, the fact that his stats age like fine wine is compelling other franchise owners to compel him to retire.
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“I’m tired of you”: LeBron James asked to retire by Mark Cuban
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LeBron's still got it at nearly 40—how long can he keep defying Father Time?
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Despite having sold off a majority of the franchise shares, Mark Cuban continues to remain a minority owner of the Dallas Mavericks. After all, it’s hard to let go of something that you have been part of for two decades. If anyone can relate to that, it’s LeBron James. Despite this, the Mavericks have only been able to make the NBA Finals once in 13 years, while the Los Angeles Lakers remain one of the most popular NBA franchises. As a result, Cuban now feels enough is enough.
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Back in October, the 66-year-old billionaire sat down for an interview with TMZ Sports. During the same, he jokingly stated, “Yes, LeBron, it’s time for you to quit. I’m tired of you.” Cuban made it clear that his remark was not based on the fact that LeBron underperforms, but the opposite. He added “No, I’m bein’ serious, only ’cause he’s still so good. He’s on the Lakers. They’re our rivals, so, it’s time to retire, LeBron.”
Well, too bad, Mark Cuban. LeBron James stated that as long as he performs well, fans will keep getting glimpses of him on the court. Having averaged 23.2 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 8.9 assists over the last 10 games, he keeps sending daily reminders that he isn’t going anywhere.
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LeBron's still got it at nearly 40—how long can he keep defying Father Time?