Professional golf star Rory McIlroy said he would like to play a round with Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James, noting the NBA veteran’s growing enthusiasm for the sport.
McIlroy’s comment surfaced in a May 13, 2026, segment shared by Golf on CBS, shortly before the Northern Irishman teed off in the second round of the PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, on May 15. The 37-year-old is coming off consecutive Masters victories and owns six major titles, a career Grand Slam and 30 PGA Tour wins.
James, 41, has taken up golf as a way to unwind after NBA seasons. With the Lakers now in the offseason, the four-time champion has additional free time while he considers his options as an unrestricted free agent. Both James and the Lakers have expressed interest in extending their partnership, and Southern California’s extensive list of courses could factor into his decision to remain in Los Angeles.
Former NBA guard JJ Redick recently pointed to golf as a key team-building outlet for the Lakers. “Finding tee times, being with each other for four hours … I think it’s great,” Redick said earlier this season, emphasizing how the sport helps players connect away from practices, buses and the city’s sprawling geography.
A potential outing with McIlroy would give James the chance to measure his developing game against one of golf’s most accomplished players while continuing the offseason routine that has become popular among NBA veterans.
Source: LakersNation.com
