Home/NBA

via Imago

via Imago

LeBron James went viral on International Women’s Day. A video showing him sandwiched between Lakers owner Jeanie Buss and Linda Rambis, the team’s executive director, sparked a frenzy. In their 49th episode of Club 520, Jeff Teague and gang offered a hilarious take with 6-words for James: “Bro trying to get an extension.

The viral clip showed James extending a friendly “First and foremost, Happy International Women’s Day!” Buss and Rambis seemed enamored with James, with Buss even leaning playfully on LeBron’s biceps and speculations abound.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

That night, the Lakers proved they could win sans their superstar. Despite LeBron down with ankle soreness, the team, one of the few women-owned in sports, emerged victorious against the Milwaukee Bucks in a nail-biter, 123-122. D’Angelo Russell stepped up like a true champion, draining a game-high 44 points, including clutch baskets that sealed the deal completely in their favor.

King James At A Crossroads

The “L” Train is currently in the first year of a hefty $99 million extension with the Lakers, which was signed in August 2022. He also has a player option for the 2024-25 season of $51.4 million. James will have two possible choices: negotiate a new contract as a free agent or accept the player option. Maybe even a third option of signing with a different team?

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

The NBA rumor mill suggests that King James is trying to bag a lucrative 3-year contract exceeding $200 million. This would cement his financial legacy as the first NBA player to cross the $500 million earnings mark.  LeBron James has already amassed over $482 million in salary throughout his balling career.

The decision deadline hangs over James’ head and he has until June 29th to decide on his player option. James’ next move might be influenced by a powerful force: his son, Bronny, a budding baller. After the cardiac arrest he suffered, Bronny’s draft prospects currently suggest a late bloomer status. However, a team could take a gamble, hoping to bag not him but along with him, pops LeBron too. The clock is ticking for Bronny. April 27th marks the deadline to declare for the upcoming 2024 draft, with a final chance to withdraw his name by May 31st.

Despite a rocky Lakers season (currently at 30-26), whispers of a potential trade swirled around James. However, his choice was seemingly to stay put. James’ manager Rich Paul even shut down rumors surrounding heavyweight contenders like Golden State and Philly.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Will LeBron prioritize the mega-millions and cement his legacy with the support of his friend Jeanie Buss, or will he share the spotlight with his possible future teammate, Bronny? Guess we’ll find out this summer. Share your thoughts below!

Read More: Demoralized LeBron James Makes No Excuse After Losing All 4 Games Vs Kings: “They Have Our Number”