LeBron James Says Mental Passion, Not Age, Will Determine Retirement Decision

LeBron James, 41, revealed in a TIME Magazine interview that he will retire when he loses the mental drive for pre-game preparation rather than due to age or declining statistics. James stated that once he stops loving the daily work of arriving early to practice and prepare, he will know it's time to leave the game. The comments offer insight into how one of basketball's greatest players views the end of his nearly 25-year career.
In a wide-ranging interview with TIME Magazine, where he was named "athlete of the century," LeBron James explained that his retirement decision will hinge on mental engagement rather than physical decline or external pressures. James emphasized that "where the mind goes, the body will lay," and specifically stated he will retire when he no longer loves arriving at the arena five hours before games or attending practice 2.5 hours early for preparation. At 41 years old after his 23rd NBA season, James remains productive—averaging 20.9 points, 7.2 assists, and 6.1 rebounds during the 2024-25 season despite missing 22 games, and elevating his performance in the playoffs. James is currently an unrestricted free agent and has indicated he will take time before deciding on a 24th season, with family considerations and championship aspirations factoring into his choice. His comments suggest that barring a sudden loss of passion for the daily work, retirement is not imminent.
What different sources said
- New York PostRight
LeBron James drops retirement warning sign: ‘Then I know I’ll be done’
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