Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James is still a crucial piece of their roster, but the future Hall-Of-Famer has hinted at a second career post-NBA.
James has seemingly been nearing the end of a legendary NBA career for years now, but despite all odds continues to play basketball at the highest level imaginable. Now that the 39-year-old may be on the tail end of his NBA career, he hinted that he could be involved with the league in a different role when his playing days are over.
“You know, I don’t know,” LeBron James said when asked about a future in broadcasting on the GoJo and Golic show. “I definitely love the sport. It would be great. I see Tom Brady doing it, he’s been great so far. And, you know, we will see. Even if it’s just a guest appearance, you know, one game or two when I’m done playing. But it’s always fun to give back to the game because the game has given me so much. So, if it’s basketball, if it’s football, if it’s whatever, I love the word ‘sport,’ because it’s given so much to me and my family. And it’s only right that I give back to it.”
James, who will turn 40 in December, has had an exceptional NBA career thus far. The 6-foot-9 forward has played in 20 All-Star games, been named to six All-Defensive teams, and received four MVP and Finals MVP awards.
Many will question whether James has the personality to excel as a broadcaster once his playing days are finished, but there’s no doubt that his exceptional basketball IQ would give him an advantage. He routinely makes high-level reads out of different actions on the offensive end of the floor.
For instance, if James is coming off a ball screen and notices that two defenders are collapsing on him, he’ll throw a pocket pass to his teammate in stride for an easy layup or dunk. If James catches the ball in the low post and realizes that the help defender standing under the basket has disregarded his defensive assignment, he'll lob the ball up to his teammate for an uncontested slam.
James may not crack many jokes while commentating, but his insightful breakdowns would help viewers understand the game at a higher level. Although he wouldn’t be out on the floor, he could point out teams’ mistakes and provide them with helpful suggestions. If he decides to go down that route after retiring from the NBA, I’m sure he would find instant success in a part-time or full-time role.
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