LeBron James has admitted that his remaining years in the NBA will be a bigger mental commitment than anything, also declaring that playing without winning is not in his DNA.
It came after James’ LA Lakers went down to the Miami Heat on Thursday (all times AEDT) 112-98 to fall to 14-21 in what’s been a bleak season for the purple and gold.
Speaking to reporters post-match, James said he isn’t sure how much longer he plans on playing at the top level for.
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“I don’t have a number,” he said. “I know as long as my mind stays in it, I can play at this level for a minute. Now, that’s up to my mind. My body is going to be OK because if my mind is into it, I will make sure my body is taken care of, and I’ll continue to put in the work.”
The four-time MVP’s comments come at a curious time as the Lakers navigate their way through a difficult period for the season after Anthony Davis was struck down with a foot injury.
LA has now lost five of its last six games to fall to 13th in the West and a ways off contender status.
Set to turn 38 years old in a few days, James, who’s contracted at the Lakers for two more seasons, has reportedly privately expressed his desire to play until he’s 45 years oldwhile his son, Bronny, is expected to make himself eligible for the 2024 NBA Draft.
Lakers undone by fiery Heat 01:11
James has previously said that he hopes to play on the same team as his two sons should they qualify for the NBA.
In his 20th season, the 18-time All-Star is still playing at an elite level, averaging 27.8 points per game, eight rebounds and 6.6 assists.
Above anything, James said winning and playing meaningful basketball is his main priority.
“I’m a winner, and I want to win. And I want to win and give myself a chance to win and still compete for championships,” he said, later adding, “I know it takes steps to get there, but once you get there & know how to get there, playing basketball at this level just to be playing basketball is not in my DNA. It’s not in my DNA anymore … we’ll see what happens and see how fresh my mind stays over the next couple of years.”
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