Savannah James' True Feelings on LeBron James' NBA Retirement Revealed
The Los Angeles Lakers expect to have LeBron James on the roster in 2025-26, as James makes history by playing in his 23rd NBA season.
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Amazingly, instead of limping toward the end of his career, James can realistically still build his 20-year streak of All-NBA and All-Star appearances. He averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds and 8.2 assists last season.
He's still playing at such a high level that retirement seems far-fetched despite the incredible miles on his body. Having a bona fide superstar like Luka Doncic alongside him now also has to help his decision-making.
Despite this, James won't keep playing forever. Retirement is on the horizon for the 40-year-old, with Shams Charania's recent report revealing Savannah James' thoughts on how long James should keep playing.
'It remains to be seen if James will reach season No. 24 or beyond," Charania wrote. "James went out to dinner in New York City this past week with his wife, Savannah; Miami Heat big man Kevin Love and his wife, Kate; and other confidants, and one of the dinner guests posted a snippet of the night to Instagram where James can be heard saying, '[Savannah] wants me to (expletive) retire in the next year or so.''
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James will break a tie with Vince Carter for most seasons played with No. 23 next year, and if he plays 50 games, he'll become the all-time leader in regular-season appearances ahead of Boston Celtics legend Robert Parish.
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23).Matt Blewett-Imagn Images
He's already spent a season alongside his eldest son, Bronny James, and will get to do it all over again next year. Outside of winning more championships, LeBron James has achieved everything he could in the game, so it makes sense that his wife wants him to start focusing on retirement life.
An entire generation of fans doesn't know what the NBA is like without LeBron James. While they won't find that out next season, we keep coming ever closer to that reality with every passing year.
Related: Magic Hall of Famer Shares Strong Take on Michael Jordan, LeBron James
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 29, 2025, where it first appeared.
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