LeBron James has sparked fresh retirement speculation after posting an ambiguous video that cuts off right as he's about to answer a question about his future. The 40-year-old Lakers star shared the clip on social media this weekend, leaving fans wondering if his playing days might be numbered.
In the teaser video, which appears to be part of an advertisement, a reporter directly asks James: "Are the retirement rumors true? What's next?" The four-time NBA champion seems ready to answer before the video abruptly ends. James added fuel to the fire with his accompanying comment.
"I've been asking myself the same question...," James wrote alongside a thinking emoji.
The timing is particularly interesting. After the "Lakers" early playoff exit against Minnesota, James mentioned needing to discuss his future with his family. He currently holds a player option worth $52.6 million for next season but has until the end of this month to decide whether to activate it.
While insider Shams Charania previously suggested James would likely play another season, this latest post hints at a possible retirement that would cut short his partnership with Luka Doncic. The arrival of the former Real Madrid star in Los Angeles was widely seen as motivation for James to extend his career – both as a championship opportunity and a chance to mentor the franchise's future cornerstone.
By the way, family considerations might also factor into James' decision. He already shares the court with his oldest son Bronny, while his younger son Bryce becomes draft-eligible in 2026 – potentially giving LeBron reason to continue playing.
Doncic, meanwhile, has reportedly been working hard on his conditioning this offseason. But will he ever get that full season playing alongside one of the greatest players of all time? The basketball world watches and waits for the King's decision.
