LeBron James reportedly does not intend to retire after the 2025-26 NBA season

According to US sports media F/W reporter Vishvisha Kumar. LeBron James once again pushed the curtain of retirement, and according to ESPN's Dave McMenaming, the king is not ready to give up his throne. While speculations about when the 40-year-old will leave the NBA continue, sources close to James now say he is not sure the 20255-26 season will be his last season. “While James has been considering retirement every offseason since 2023, a source familiar with James’s ideas told ESPN that at this point, James wouldn’t be sure it will be his last season.”

Although James has been considering retirement every offseason since 2023. Now entering his 23rd season and ready to pick his $52.6 million player option, LeBron makes it clear that his gas tank is not empty. He is still producing at the elite level, still motivated, and most importantly, he is still eager to compete. James will turn 41 in December and has returned to the court with a sprained medial collateral ligament on his left knee in Game 5 of the Lakers’ first-round loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Despite an injury ending his playoffs early, LeBron resumed on-field activities this week, and he has been reportedly training with his son, Bronny James, the first time the two have extended their offseason since last year's Paris Olympics. “I have a lot of time to deal with my injuries, my knees and other parts of my body and make sure I get as close to 100% as I can when I start camp in late September,” LeBron told the Associated Press, strengthening his commitment to a full-time return.

Despite 20 years of injuries and wear and tear at the highest level, LeBron continues to challenge time. Last season, he averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds and 8.2 assists per game, shooting 51.3% from the field, a number that most players at their peak would envy. He helped the Lakers become the third seed in the Western Conference, even in the case of lineup changes and coaching changes.

Earlier this month, after a mysterious commercial featuring LeBron was aired, rumors of retirement briefly reignited, sparking discussions he might call quit. Charania even suggested that season 23 might be his final scene: "Wearing number 23 for 23 seasons." But for now, the King seems to be planning to extend his rule. According to sources, LeBron’s family, especially his children, played a key role in pushing him forward. His son Brownie was selected by the Lakers, creating the first historic moment in NBA history where father and son played side by side.

While ESPN is ready to offer James a job as a retired analyst, they may have to wait. LeBron hasn't finished adding chapters to his legend. If anything, his current achievements include durability, longevity and indomitable willingness to play. Currently, retirement can be waited because LeBron James is not over yet. not yet.