LeBron James is entering his 23rd year in the NBA. The Los Angeles Lakers‘ veteran superstar recently opted into his $52.6 million player option.
Sooner or later, James’ career is going to come to an end. And, when it does, we shouldn’t expect to see him transition into the coaching ranks. In a recent appearance on “Sports Scene,” James explained why he has “no desire” to become a head coach in the NBA.
“No, no coaching for me,” James said. “I was inspired by the game. I love the game. But I don’t have coaching in my future.”
During his storied career, James has played under nine head coaches. He will undoubtedly understand what it takes to succeed in the hot seat. However, James’ post-playing career clearly resides elsewhere, perhaps in ownership, or potentially outside of basketball entirely.
Lakers’ LeBron James Urged to Retire
As you would expect, LeBron is the only player left in the NBA from his 2003 draft class. In fact, this weekend saw Carmelo Anthony, who was selected third overall in 2003, inducted into the NBA’s Hall of Fame.
During an appearance on “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” Anthony jokingly suggested that James should consider retirement after the upcoming season.
“He’s still going, it’s unbelievable, man,” Anthony said. “That’s my brother. We talk about being around, being together, being tied, being connected, being talked about since we were 17, 18 years old. And for me to be entering the Hall of Fame, and for him, hopefully, to get his ass up out of there and come on over this side (smiles). Enough is enough. Give it a break.”
Despite his age, James is still one of the most productive players in the NBA. Last season, he averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds and 8.2 assists in 70 regular-season games. He shot 51.3% from the field and 37.6% from 3-point range.
Regardless of how well James plays in the upcoming season, it’s clear that his time in the league is coming to an end. However, there’s no guarantee retirement will be waiting for him in the summer of 2026.
Paul Pierce Expects Lakers’ LeBron James to Retire
According to former Boston Celtics champion Paul Pierce, this could be James’s last year in the NBA.
“If I’m a betting man, I think this will be his last season,” Pierce said. “You know, I think he’s played 21, 22 years. He’s been the GOAT for so long. He’s maintained the stats. We appreciate what he brought to the game and how he’s held the mantle since (Michael) Jordan left. Bron is one of them ones. We appreciate him. But I think his time is up. But we appreciate what he’s done for the league.”
James is still good enough that he can dictate when he steps away from the NBA. Even if he leaves the Lakers this season, there will be opportunities elsewhere for him in the league. Nevertheless, he will turn 41 during the upcoming season. S
ooner or later, he has to call time on his playing career, whether that be next summer or in 2027. All we know for sure is that when he chooses to step away, he will be missed.
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