LeBron James at 40: Still Dominating as He Enters Season 23
LeBron James is rewriting what longevity means in basketball. At 40 years old, the Los Angeles Lakers star begins his 23rd NBA season, extending his record as the first player ever to reach that milestone. And despite the chatter around retirement, insiders say the King isn’t close to slowing down.
“No Sign He’s Slowing Down”
ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, who has covered James since high school, emphasized on The Hoop Collective podcast: “As long as he remains healthy, there’s no sign he’s slowing down.” Analyst Tim Bontemps added that while LeBron may now sit in the top-10 to 15 range, his production remains elite.
Numbers Don’t Lie
Last season, James logged 70 games, averaging 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists — all while shooting 37.6% from three. Those stats rival players half his age.
Beyond the NBA?
Rumors swirl of a global basketball league tied to his business partner Maverick Carter, but insiders confirm no formal plan exists. For now, LeBron’s focus is clear: leading the Lakers and keeping the dream of sharing the court with son Bronny alive.
“Age is not a factor,” James insists. “I feel young every time I step on the court.”
💬”Age doesn’t matter. Age is just a number. I definitely feel energetic every time I am doing on the floor, trying to give everything I got to my teammates.”
– @KingJames on whether age matters 👑🏀@LakersNation @BleacherReport @LeBronTeam pic.twitter.com/CnlDZ6Ejne
— CGTN Sports Scene (@CGTNSportsScene) September 7, 2025
