LeBron James says the day he steps away from professional basketball will feel more like a party than a eulogy.
Speaking with Melissa Rohlin of the California Post, the 41-year-old forward explained that he wants his eventual retirement to highlight “everything I’ve been able to accomplish in this game” rather than dwell on what is ending. “It’ll be a celebration of life and not of loss,” he said.
Now in his 23rd NBA season, James continues to deliver elite numbers for the Los Angeles Lakers, averaging 21.6 points on just over 50 percent shooting, along with 7.0 assists and 5.7 rebounds per game. Former teammate Dwyane Wade told the California Post that James might be playing “the most complete” basketball of his career, despite the mileage.
The four-time champion was reminded of his longevity last month when a tribute video in Cleveland—where he spent 11 seasons and won the 2016 title—left him visibly emotional on the bench.
Asked how he hopes his legacy is framed, James bypassed statistics and awards, replying, “I didn’t cheat the game. I showed up every day. I put my work in. I showed grace.”
The league’s all-time scoring leader is expected to become a free agent this offseason, but he has not attached a timetable to retirement. Whenever that moment arrives, James insists it will read less like a goodbye and more like a thank-you note to the sport.
Source: Hoops Wire
