LeBron James: what does the future hold for his legend?
LeBron James: time to take stock and the future
The NBA legend's impending retirement raises questions about his legacy, his future influence and the longevity of his role model. Complete decryption.
LeBron James, a titanic figure in the NBA and undoubtedly one of the greatest basketball players in history, is inexorably approaching the twilight of his sporting career. This major transition is capturing global attention, raising a central and urgent question about the rest of its journey and the exact nature of the legacy it is preparing to leave. The statistics speak for themselves: 20 seasons in the NBA, 4 championship titles, 4 MVPs, 19 All-Star Game selections and a record 40,000 points scored.
At 39 years old, he remains a key player for the Los Angeles Lakers, despite a 2023-2024 season marked by injuries and lackluster performances. 4 million, extends his time in the NBA until at least 2025, but the question of his retirement is looming with increasing urgency. Observers are wondering: will he stop on one last title, or will he prefer to leave the stage at his own pace, without pressure?
His influence goes far beyond the courts. In 2018, he founded the *I PROMISE School* in Akron, Ohio, providing free education and social support to thousands of underprivileged children. This project, financed in part by his own funds, illustrates his social commitment and his desire to give back to the community that saw him grow.
His role as an informal mentor for young talents like Anthony Edwards and Caitlin Clark also shows how he shapes the future of sport beyond his career. Comparisons with other sports legends, such as Michael Jordan or Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, are natural. Like them, LeBron has transcended the game with his exceptional longevity and ability to dominate in different eras.
However, where Jordan left the stage with a final NBA title, LeBron, at 39 years old, remains in search of this holy grail with the Los Angeles Lakers. This quest adds an additional dimension to the analysis of his legacy: his record, already legendary, could be further enriched with a final glorious chapter, or on the contrary, freeze on an unfinished note. His influence also extends to the next generation of players.
Stars like Luka Dončić and Jayson Tatum grew up admiring his game, and his hybrid approach — combining physical power, game vision and tactical intelligence — has redefined expectations for modern wingers. LeBron proved that a player can dominate through both his athleticism and basketball IQ, a model that now influences young talents from the moment they form. His impact can also be measured in the career choices of young players, who now favor a versatility similar to his.
But his legacy is not limited to his performances or his influence on the game. LeBron also left his mark on sports culture through his political and social commitment. His speeches on subjects such as police violence or equal rights have made him an influential voice well beyond the field.
His documentary *More Than an Athlete* (2023) revealed behind the scenes of his journey, from his humble origins to his quest for greatness, reinforcing his status as a cultural figure. The reactions are not limited to simple nostalgia; they question the extent of its impact. Experts and fans agree on one point: the departure of LeBron James represents much more than a simple hole in a squad.
It is the conclusion of a dominant era, that of a player who redefined the standards of athletic excellence and leadership. The discussion now focuses on the longevity of his influence beyond the courts and jerseys, and how his imprint will continue to shape basketball. The next step for LeBron James isn't just a quiet retirement.
His influence on the sport and his community is such that it will continue to be felt long after his final shot. The future will tell how this transition will take place in practice, but one thing is certain: the basketball world must prepare to live without his active presence, while continuing to observe the repercussions of his immense work. The Lakers will have to deal with a new reality.
Their post-LeBron reconstruction promises to be complex, but young talents like Rui Hachimura or Max Christie could benefit from the space freed up by his departure. The franchise will also have to manage the legacy of the number 23, a symbol that goes beyond the simple jersey. LeBron has transformed the Lakers into a global brand, and his absence will leave a void that is difficult to fill, both athletically and commercially. Read at L'Équipe NBA
Why this matters
The end of LeBron James' career constitutes a seismic event for the world of basketball. As a central figure and one of the greatest players of all time, his departure marks the end of an era of dominance and excellence. The importance of this moment lies in the need to measure the extent of his legacy, not only through his sporting records, but also through his profound impact on the culture of sport and its community. This legacy will live on and influence world basketball long after his shoes have been put away. His role as an informal mentor for young talents and his social commitment further extend this influence, making him a much broader figure than that of a simple athlete. The NBA, already in the process of changing with the emergence of new stars, will now have to deal with the absence of a moral benchmark and an absolute reference in terms of professionalism and leadership.
Frequently asked
What will fans do after he retires?
Fans and pundits will continue to follow his journey and analyze his impact on the sport, with his legacy remaining a major topic of discussion. Its role in the media, documentaries or entrepreneurial projects could also occupy part of the public attention.
Is LeBron James considered the best player?
He is unanimously recognized as one of the best basketball players of all time, although the debate over first place often remains open among purists, who often compare his record to that of Michael Jordan.
What is his impact outside of basketball?
Its impact extends well beyond sport: social commitment with the *I PROMISE School*, cultural influence through its speaking engagements and entrepreneurial projects, and role as a role model for millions of young people around the world.
Can he still win an NBA title?
At 39, the window is narrow, but not closed. The Lakers are banking on him for one last competitive campaign, even if the odds now favor his retirement after the 2024-2025 season.
How do young players perceive his legacy?
Stars like Luka Dončić or Jayson Tatum cite LeBron as an absolute reference. His hybrid approach (power, vision, intelligence) has redefined expectations for modern wingers, influencing their development from the youth categories onwards.
What will happen next for the Lakers after his departure?
The Lakers will have to rebuild around young talents like Rui Hachimura or Max Christie, while managing the legacy of number 23. The franchise will also have to find a new media face to replace LeBron's global aura.
