LeBron James has made history yet again. This time by preparing to become the first player in NBA history to enter a 23rd season. But as the Los Angeles Lakers opened their 2025-26 campaign with media day on Monday, the basketball icon admitted that he has yet to decide when he will walk away from the game.
Now 40, and set to turn 41 in December, James remains driven by his love for basketball, his dedication to personal growth, and the motivation to compete at the highest level — all while acknowledging that the end is approaching.
“I’m excited about today, I’m excited about the opportunity to play the game I love for another season,” James told reporters. “Whatever this year’s journey brings, I’m fully committed because I don’t know when the end will be. It’s sooner rather than later.”
Still playing at an elite level — he averaged 24.4 points per game last season — James showed no signs of slowing down mentally or physically. “The thing still driving me is my undiminished love for the game and an even greater love for the process,” he said. “It’s simple – I enjoy training, working on my body, and trying to get as close to 100% as possible each year.”
While James remains coy about retirement, his enthusiasm for the season ahead is clear. A full training camp with Slovenian star Luka Doncic — acquired mid-season last year in a blockbuster trade with the Dallas Mavericks — has further ignited his competitive spirit.
“The motivation to play alongside him every night is incredibly inspiring,” James said of Doncic. “It’s going to prepare my body for every game, striving to be the best player I can be for him. We’ll build off each other.”
Beyond Doncic, the Lakers have made notable offseason moves, bringing in veteran guard Marcus Smart and dominant centre DeAndre Ayton to bolster their roster. James believes this improved squad is well-positioned for a deep playoff run.
“I’m excited to get to work and see what we can achieve,” he added.
Doncic, also speaking to the media, echoed James’ optimism, emphasizing the value of preseason preparation. “When you join a new team mid-season, it’s challenging to integrate everything. But a pre-season will greatly help with leadership and getting to know the players. I’m very excited – I believe we can accomplish great things.”
For now, LeBron James remains focused on the present, embracing what may be the twilight of his legendary career but with no final chapter written just yet.
