Story by
"Retirement is coming" - LeBron admits he's aware of where he is in his career and hints the end is near
- Story by
- "Retirement is coming" - LeBron admits he's aware of where he is in his career and hints the end is near
LeBron James is set to play in year 23 of what has been a decorated and illustrious NBA career. And while he's still playing at an elite level, averaging 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds and 8.2 assists for the Los Angeles Lakers last season, many are wondering when the end will come. After all, even though it seems like Bron's capable of playing forever, given his rigid work ethic and impeccable physical conditioning, time is undefeated.
Recently, in an interview with Speedy Mormon, James gave a candid glimpse into his mindset as he nears the final stages of his career. While discussing his future goals and aspirations, the 40-year-old acknowledged that retirement is looming on the horizon.
Advertisement
LeBron knows he's on the back end of his career
King James has discussed retirement several times before, and when asked once again on the "360 With Speedy" podcast, he acknowledged he doesn't have long in the big league. He doesn't know when exactly he'll hang his Nikes up, but LeBron candidly admitted he won't be playing another 10 years in the league.
"I'm not hinting at anything. I mean, obviously, I know I'm on the other side of that hump," LeBron stated . "Like, come on now. I'm not about to play another 23 years — that's for damn sure. And I'm not about to play another 10. So I'm definitely gearing up toward the end. I'm not there yet."
Advertisement
Internet sleuths have noticed that LeBron has been spending more time on the golf course than usual, and they immediately interpret this as a sign of retirement. However, James is quick to shut down those rumors, saying he's just trying to stay active and enjoy his downtime.
"Listen, guys, every time I pick up something new does not mean retirement," he stressed with a smile. "It's like, 'Oh, I saw this MF eating with chopsticks — oh, he's retiring. Oh, I saw him wear a t-shirt that's too big — oh, retirement. Oh s—t, he picked up golf — retirement.'"
Nevertheless, make no mistake about it: James feels it in his bones that his career is almost at an end. He's just not ready to make that jump yet.
Advertisement
"Retirement is coming. It is coming. It's just not here just yet," Bron declared.
What more is there left to do?
With four NBA titles, four NBA Finals MVP trophies, four league MVP awards and nearly every individual accolade there is to win in the league, except for the Defensive Player of the Year award, LeBron has written his name in the record books as one of the most dominant players in history. Some even argue he's the GOAT, not Michael Jordan.
Advertisement
Although the pursuit of a fifth ring keeps his competitive drive going, James himself admitted to thinking about what else he can achieve before walking away from the game he loves.
"What more [is left]? I've done everything I can do. There's nothing I haven't accomplished in this league that I've wanted to accomplish. So, like, at some point, you got to [hang it up]," he remarked.
As celebrated as LeBron's remarkable hoop skills and IQ are, his longevity and injury-free career are just as impressive. However, it may be time for James to go out on his own terms, head held high, without so much as a shadow of doubt from the critics. The decision is ultimately his, but one thing is for sure: Bron's legacy will continue to shine bright in the NBA history books.
This story was originally reported by Basketball Network on Sep 19, 2025, where it first appeared in the Latest News section. Add Basketball Network as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
