NBA news: LeBron James eyes playing with both sons before retirement
LeBron James has already redefined longevity in the NBA, but his next ambition could make for one of the most remarkable stories in sports history.
Here, Sports News Blitz’s Noah Ngcobo looks at how the LA Lakers star is working towards an unprecedented dream.
A historic father-son first
LeBron James has built a career filled with milestones, but perhaps none captured public imagination more than when he and his eldest son, Bronny James, shared the court during the 2024 season.
The moment marked the first time a father and son had ever played together in a regular NBA game, an achievement that instantly became part of league history.
Bronny, now in his second year as a professional, continues to develop within the Los Angeles Lakers organisation.
He splits time between the main roster and the South Bay Lakers in the G League, where he averaged modest numbers during his rookie season but showed steady growth as he adjusted to the professional level.
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Bryce James steps into the spotlight
Attention is now shifting toward the younger James sibling, Bryce. Standing at 6’6 and known for his size and shooting ability, Bryce is beginning his collegiate career at the University of Arizona.
A product of Sierra Canyon High School in Los Angeles, he helped his team capture the CIF State Division 1 title before committing to the Wildcats.
Bryce enters the program with realistic expectations, understanding that his famous surname brings both scrutiny and opportunity.
The freshman has expressed confidence in Arizona coach Tommy Lloyd’s development system and looks forward to the passionate atmosphere that comes with Wildcats basketball.
Despite being only 18, Bryce is already being discussed as a potential NBA Draft prospect in 2026.
Scouts note his strong frame, shooting touch, and basketball instincts, while also recognising areas for improvement, such as ball handling and defensive consistency.
LeBron’s career timeline
At 40 years old, LeBron continues to defy time. Last season, he averaged 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds, statistics that would be impressive for players in their prime, let alone someone entering his 23rd year in the league.
Currently in the final year of his contract with the Lakers, James exercised his $52.6 million player option to extend his stay for another season.
The decision kept speculation alive about his long-term plans. Some predict he could seek a return to the Cleveland Cavaliers for a symbolic end to his career, while others believe he will keep pushing until he shares the court with Bryce.
Whispers from around the league
Reports from league insiders suggest that James has no intention of retiring in the immediate future.
One executive noted that unless there is a dramatic drop in his performance or the Lakers secure another championship, LeBron is likely to play through at least the 2026/27 season.
The possibility of pairing with Bryce provides further motivation.
This is not the first time the idea has surfaced. In 2023, a Beats by Dre commercial featuring Savannah James hinted at LeBron’s ambition to play alongside both sons.
At the time, many dismissed the suggestion as playful marketing, yet it increasingly appears to reflect his true goal.
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A family dream
Beyond statistics and accolades, LeBron James has always positioned himself as a family man.
His marriage to Savannah and his devotion to their three children have shaped his public image as much as his dominance on the court.
Both Bronny and Bryce have voiced support for their father’s desire to keep playing.
Bryce, in particular, has shared some of the advice he received before beginning his college journey.
LeBron emphasised resilience, encouraging him to stay positive through mistakes and to approach the game with the right mentality.
The next chapter
If James accomplishes his goal, the NBA could witness a moment never before seen in professional basketball.
Playing with both sons would not only expand on the historic milestone he achieved with Bronny, but also serve as a defining family legacy in the sport.
The path forward depends on Bryce’s development at Arizona, Bronny’s continued growth with the Lakers, and LeBron’s remarkable ability to maintain elite performance well into his 40s.
For now, the basketball world waits to see whether the James family can script another unforgettable chapter in NBA history.
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