LeBron James Reveals What Persuaded Him Not to Retire From The NBA

After their playoff loss to the Denver Nuggets in the 2022-23 NBA playoffs, LeBron James hinted at potentially retiring from the NBA. Given that he’s among the NBA’s oldest and most decorated players, his potential retirement seems reasonable.

While many fans doubted they’d see LeBron on the court once more, a good number were hopeful of his return. Their hopes materialized when the 38-year-old veteran confirmed his comeback for his 21st NBA season during the 2023 ESPY Awards.

Now, on the 2023-24 NBA media day, reporters asked LeBron about his decision to return for the season. Among other things, the seasoned Lakers superstar mentioned that the offseason work of head coach Darvin Ham and general manager Rob Pelinka influenced his decision not to retire. 

Per USA Today: 

“To be honest, if I want to keep it all the way real, the job that Coach Ham and Rob did with acquisitions that we got coming in, that kind of inspired me too,” James said. “I feel like we got a really good team. They did a great job this summer being able to re-sign some of the guys we already had here with the camaraderie.’’