There’s a lot of fanfare for the upcoming 23rd NBA season of LeBron James. Although the star forward is already 40, he’s still showing how effective he can be for the Los Angeles Lakers. However, there has been some speculation regarding his retirement. James has dismissed the rumors and is still unsure about when he’ll hang it up.
On Monday, James and the Lakers energized the fans for the looming 2025-26 season. Aside from the 20-time All-Star setting a new record for most seasons played, fans will also get to see him share the court with his co-star, Luka Doncic, for a full regular season. Last year, the star duo played 23 games together after Doncic was traded to Los Angeles by the Dallas Mavericks.
Seeing them lead the Lakers could hopefully be one of the main focuses of their new season. During James’ time with the reporters, he dropped the bombshell on playing a full season with Doncic as his motivation for the new year.
Chris McGee of Spectrum SportsNet talks about his motivation for his 23rd season.
“Full season with Luka. For real. Like I get a full season with Luka,” James said. “Seeing what Luka was doing in EuroBasket this summer. Everyone’s talking about his body and how well in shape he is and all that. Another season under the belt with the coaching staff. We had one year, first year, JJ and his coaching staff. So we get another full year of that. … We get to start right from day one.”
LeBron kicking off Year 23 in true Media Day fashion 👑
From golf talk to ranking his all-time dunks, the Kid from Akron reminded us why he’s still having fun — and still redefining greatness.@RealAClifton @geeter3 @JamesWorthy42 pic.twitter.com/8X2KvyUyHY
— Spectrum SportsNet (@SpectrumSN) September 29, 2025
LeBron James wants to experience an entire campaign with Doncic, who is coming off an amazing summer. The Slovenian star played well for the Slovenian men’s national basketball team and made headlines with his new physical appearance.
LeBron James confirmed that Doncic won’t impact his potential retirement
LeBron James’ potential retirement has been part of the media buzz for quite some time. However, the four-time champion has delayed it multiple times, which has led him to his 23rd season.
Speaking to the media, James was asked about the impact that Doncic has on his potential retirement. The 6-foot-9 star put an end to the discussion regarding whether the Slovenian great influenced his decision to continue in the sport or quit. According to him, the decision will be his to make and won’t allow the five-time All-Star or any of his teammates to make an impact on it.
“But as far as me [referring to] him and some of my other teammates of how far I’ll go in my career, no, it would be my decision along with my wife. … It won’t be having a meeting with my teammates,” LeBron James said (2:30).
Next season, King James will be the sole player who has played 23 seasons in the NBA.
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Reign also writes NBA and WNBA news updates on Sportskeeda. He started as a feature writer for AirAlamo, an NBA website that covers the San Antonio Spurs. Some of his work can also be seen on Valley of the Suns, a Phoenix Suns-centric website, where he served as a contributing writer.
