LeBron James’s longevity is legendary. The Los Angeles Lakers forward is about to begin his 23rd NBA season and still shows no signs of retiring. Even his oldest son, Bronny, is surprised by his father’s level at 40.
The King has been playing longer than Bronny, a 20-year-old, has been alive. LeBron debuted in the NBA in 2003, and his oldest son was born in 2004. They even set a league milestone last year by becoming the first father-son duo to play together in the same game.
The elder James has already secured his return for next year by picking up the player option on his contract with the Lakers, but his long-term future is still unclear. Some fans and analysts believe his retirement is approaching, while others, like Bronny, are simply amazed at the level he continues to display.
Brony’s admiration for his father
In a recent chat on SportsNet’s Spectrum, the Lakers guard made clear his admiration for his father’s long career. “I’m as surprised as everyone else. I don’t know how he’s doing it,” said Bronny, who is about to enter his second season.
“I’ve been here from literally the start,” joked Bronny, recalling that he is younger than his father’s career. “I’m just surprised as everyone else. I don’t know how he’s doing it. It’s crazy to be a part of that. And I’ve been here from literally the start. Literally, I’ve been here from the jump. He’s literally my dad,” said the younger James.
Could LeBron be the NBA’s oldest player?
Despite the King’s extensive career, he’s still nowhere near being the oldest player in history. That honor belongs to head coach Nat Hickey of the Providence Steamrollers of the defunct BAA, who entered the game at 45 years and 363 days old in 1948.
In the NBA, Kevin Willis played his last game at 44 years and 224 days old in April 2007. This means James would have to play until at least the 2029-2030 season if he wants to break at least Willis’ record. It seems difficult, but the way the King continues to play, no one doubts he can do it.
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