How long can LeBron James keep going? At 40, he isn’t just the oldest player in the NBA, he’s still one of its most dominant forces. The league’s all-time leading scorer continues to thrive, averaging 24.3 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 9.0 assists per game.
While most players his age have retired, LeBron remains committed to the game. However, at some point, he will have to hang up his sneakers. Based on his recent comments, though, that moment isn’t coming anytime soon.
LeBron’s motivation: guiding Bronny on and off the court
One of LeBron James‘ biggest goals before retirement was playing alongside his eldest son, Bronny. Now, he’s focused on ensuring the 20-year-old thrives in the league.
Following a stellar 40-point performance against the Trail Blazers, LeBron participated in a Q&A session where he was asked about his motivation to keep playing.
“I’ve still got a lot to give to the game, to my teammates, and to this league while I’m here,” LeBron said. But his biggest reason? His son. “I also have the opportunity now to show my son the ranks, how to be a professional, what this league is all about, and be alongside him every single day. That’s a treat, unless he’s with the South Bay.”
While LeBron remains a dominant force, Bronny is still finding his footing. Many doubted his NBA potential after he was drafted 55th overall. His college stats at USC, 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists, didn’t help his case. So far, those concerns have proven valid, as Bronny has struggled in the league. In 17 games, he has averaged just 4.2 minutes of playtime, scoring 1.4 points per game.
Rich Paul pushes for Bronny’s G League development
LeBron knows his son has a long way to go, which is why he’s extending his career to support him. But while LeBron wants to mentor Bronny directly, his agent, Rich Paul, believes the G League is the better path.
Speaking on Gil’s Arena, Paul stated, “The G League today has a much better development structure. If you look at the draft, nearly every player from the third pick to the last has spent time in the G League.”
He pointed to clients like Dejounte Murray, who played a full season in the G League before becoming a starting point guard in the Western Conference Finals.
Bronny has already shown improvement in the G League, recently scoring a career-high nine points against the Utah Jazz. But more time in the developmental league means less time playing alongside his father.
LeBron remains committed to setting an example for Bronny, both as a parent and a teammate. However, if the G League proves to be the best path forward, Bronny may have to embrace it, even if it means stepping away from his father’s immediate guidance.
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