TITLE: LeBron James Cites Jay-Z While Explaining Ongoing Drive in Year 23
SLUG: lebron-james-explains-drive-with-jay-z-quote-late-in-career
CONTENT:
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James, now 41 and in his unprecedented 23rd NBA season, says his relentless preparation stems from a vow to “never disrespect the basketball gods.”
Speaking after the Lakers’ Jan. 12 matchup against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center, James explained that his daily commitment—mental, physical and spiritual—remains non-negotiable despite a résumé that already includes every major professional accomplishment.
“I put the time, the effort and the commitment in,” James said. “Every time I step on the floor or into a practice, I’m trying to set the example for my teammates and the younger generation. My son is right over there, so I can’t afford to cheat the game.”
The four-time MVP punctuated the point with a line from rapper Jay-Z: “If you can’t respect that, your whole perspective is whack. Maybe you’ll love me when I fade to black.”
Head coach JJ Redick recently praised James’s diligence, noting that seeing the veteran up close has underscored the level of preparation required to perform at an elite level deep into a career.
James’s routine was on display again during his first back-to-back of the season, when he nearly recorded a triple-double in a win over the Atlanta Hawks. The decision to play both nights, he said, followed the same meticulous process he has adhered to for two decades.
Source: Lakers Nation
