LeBron James has been wowing the basketball world for the better part of two decades now and even today, ahead of his 21st season, fans are expecting a show every time he steps on the court. Even for a 2x MVP like Giannis Antetokounmpo, LeBron’s body of work has not gone unnoticed and he had no issue gushing about the 4x champion’s unprecedented legacy.
“I’ve said it many times I’m a very very big fan of LeBron, I remember when I came in the league my first year was his 11th season, basically grew up watching him,” said Antetokounmpo. “When I came in and understood the way he operates this guy is like a genius, he knows how to play the game of basketball and for 21 years he’s been extremely consistent, he’s always available for his team. It’s incredible man it’s totally incredible.”
At 28 years old, Giannis is still in the prime of his career and still a long way off from where LeBron is entering this season. Even so, Giannis can recognize how difficult it is to stay on top for so long and the fact that LeBron has made it look so easy speaks to how much work and dedication he gives to the sport.
LeBron Is Setting A New Standard
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar did what most people thought was impossible when he won the Finals MVP at 38 years old. At the time, it was unheard of for a guy of his age, with that much experience, to still play like one of the NBA elites. Of course, LeBron is currently on track to surpass Kareem’s longevity. At 38 years old, James is already the NBA’s all-time leading scorer and he’ll be building his lead on the scoreboard as he plays this season out for the Lakers.
Despite over 1,400 games played in his career, LeBron is still playing elite-level basketball with averages of 28 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 6.8 assists per game as recently as last season. Truth be told, LeBron’s trajectory is truly unprecedented and it will serve as the new benchmark for all star athletes going forward.
What’s Next For King James?
After teasing about hanging up his jersey for good, LeBron gave the basketball world relief when he announced that he’d be returning for the 2023-24 campaign. But regardless of his status, the retirement talks are proof that LeBron is getting close to the end now. The plan, at least for now, is to take things season by season. Whether the Lakers win or lose the 2024 postseason, LeBron will have some decisions to make when it’s done, especially since his firstborn son will be ready to make the NBA leap.
Either way, it seems like time is starting to run out for LeBron. And as strong as he looks now, nothing lasts forever. The best James can hope for now is that he goes out as a winner instead of in disappointment like past NBA legends. The good news is, with Anthony Davis, Austin Reaves, and Rui Hachimura, the Lakers have everything they need to make the most of LeBron’s final basketball years. This season, the team will spare no expense to bring home another title and end this era with a bang.
We sincerely appreciate and respect you as a reader of our site. It would help us a lot if you follow us on Google News because of the latest update.
Thanks for following us. We really appreciate your support.
