LeBron James hints at possible NBA retirement while joking with Tom Brady and Victor Wembanyama
(Image Source - Getty Images)
LeBron James
is back in the spotlight—but this time, it's not because of a highlight reel or a record-breaking stat. A cryptic seven-second video, a playful yet pointed jab at retirement during Fanatics Fest, and a $52.6 million contract decision quietly ticking down have stirred a wave of speculation.
No big announcements, no bold statements—just quiet signals that something bigger might be brewing behind the scenes.
LeBron James nears a career-defining choice as the Los Angeles
Lakers
wait quietly
LeBron, who is 40, is about to enter the last guaranteed year of his contract with the Los Angeles Lakers and needs to make a decision on a $52.6 million player option by June 29, 2025. Just a few weeks after the Lakers were knocked out by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round, LeBron released a cryptic seven-second ad: he stands at a fake podium, gets asked about retirement, pauses mid-sentence, and then the screen goes black.
Captioned, 'I've been asking myself the same question… #ad,' the clip reignited debate about his future.
LeBron is still putting up elite numbers. Last season, he averaged 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds, shooting a solid 51.3% from the field and 37.6% from three. Even though he's still a powerhouse on the court, he has made it clear — 'playing just for the sake of playing is not in my DNA anymore'. Sources close to James insist he has 'at least one more year left' and may even take a $10 million pay cut to help the Lakers improve their roster.
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During Fanatics Fest, the banter on stage between Tom Brady (who played until 58) and Victor Wembanyama was pretty entertaining: LeBron quipped that as long as Brady continues to outshine him, 'it's going to make me retire.' The pointed jab at competition and aging sends a meaningful message—he's entertaining the question, even if humor masks the weight of the decision .
In the meantime, the broadcasting industry is making its move.
With Amazon Prime starting NBA coverage in 2025–26, insiders indicate that LeBron could emulate Tom Brady by joining Fox's NFL booth, or even take a cue from Michael Jordan's time at NBC. Front Office Sports mentions that his increasing relationship with Prime—originating from his "What's Next?" ad, grooming line, podcast, and SpringHill collaboration—makes a media role post-retirement more feasible.
LeBron James's fun remark on stage alongside Brady and Wembanyama, paired with a puzzling ad and a staggering $52.6 million contract choice, has sparked discussions about retirement. Yet, his outstanding play, readiness to accept a pay cut, and prospects in broadcasting imply that this decision is more tactical than emotional.
Also Read:
Tom Brady's latest take on basketball greatness could change how fans see LeBron James vs Michael Jordan battle
With the player-option deadline looming on June 29, we could soon discover if King James will enhance his legacy with a remarkable 23rd season or embark on a new path in sports media.
Follow all the live updates, scores, and highlights from the
India vs England Test match here
.
Game On Season 1 kicks off with Sakshi Malik's inspiring story. Watch Episode 1 here
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