LeBron James Sees Retirement as ‘Celebration of Life,’ Says He Never ‘Cheated the Game’
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LOS ANGELES — As his 23rd NBA season winds down, Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James is already thinking about the day he finally steps away from basketball, calling the moment a “celebration of life” rather than an ending.
In an exclusive interview with the California Post, James, 41, compared retirement to honoring a loved one at a funeral. “People tend to be sad, but it’s also a celebration of life,” he said. “When I’m done with this game, it’ll be a celebration of everything I’ve been able to accomplish.”
James remains productive despite nagging injuries, averaging 21.4 points, 5.6 rebounds and 7.0 assists this season, though his three-point accuracy has dipped to 31.3%. He has continued to generate easy scoring opportunities in transition and by orchestrating offense from the post.
The four-time champion emphasized that his greatest point of pride is his work ethic. “I didn’t cheat the game,” he said. “I’ve dedicated to this sport. I’ve showed up every day on time, put the work in on and off the court, and showed grace. I just wanted to maximize and squeeze everything I could out of the game.”
Asked how he will know it is time to leave, James offered a simple answer: “Me smiling. That’s the best way I know for sure that I’ve gotten the most out of it.”
The 22-time All-Star recently passed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for the NBA record in career field goals made, adding to a résumé that already includes the league’s all-time scoring mark.
Whether his final season comes in Los Angeles or elsewhere, James said he intends to depart on his own terms, confident his legacy is secure.
Source: LakersNation.com
