“I haven’t decided how many seasons I have left to play. But I know there’s not much left,” LeBron James said Sunday during a press conference in Indianapolis, before participating in the NBA All-Star Game for the 20th time in his prestigious career. .
At 39, the four-time NBA champion is playing his 21st season in the North American pro league and his sixth with the Los Angeles Lakers. After his elimination in the Western Conference final last year, he left doubts – quickly swept away – of a possible retirement.
“I don’t know how I’m going to finish, but the end is coming for sure”
“I’m a Laker, and I’ve been happy as a Laker for the last six years, I hope it stays that way. But I don’t have the answer to how many seasons I have left or what jersey I will wear,” he said. LeBron James has the power to activate an additional year of his contract for next season, or find himself free this summer.
He thus leaves the door open to a final change of franchise (after Cleveland, Miami then Cleveland again), while his aging Lakers have been struggling for two years during the regular season (currently ranked ninth in the Western Conference).
“I hope it will be with the Lakers,” continued James. It’s an excellent organization. We’ll see. I don’t know how I’m going to finish, but the end is coming for sure. »
The Olympics to take into account
The NBA points record holder was also questioned about the Paris 2024 Olympic Games (July 26 – August 11), he who seems to have motivated a “Dream Team” around him and hopes to win a third gold medal, after those from 2008 and 2012.
“When I decided to make the Olympic team, I vowed to put my health first. (But) currently, I am fit enough to be part of the team and play at a sufficient level, he assured. The Olympic Games are 11 additional matches, but above all five and a half weeks and extra kilometers of travel on my already tired tires. »
“Dedicate my body, mind and soul to “Team USA””
“I plan to dedicate my body, my mind and my soul to “Team USA”, to represent and play for our country with the greatest respect,” added LeBron James. I’m sure I wouldn’t have to carry the team on my shoulders. This has never been the case in my three previous experiences. (…) I don’t yet know what the full selection will look like, but given some of the names, I know I won’t have any pressure at that level. »
“It will be a team of 12 players all capable of performing well on offense and defense every night against any team on the planet,” concluded James.
