Could an NBA Legend Play Overseas After Retirement?
The Los Angeles Lakers are preparing for a big season, especially with the future of an NBA legend in jeopardy. The all-time leading scorer in NBA history, LeBron James, is preparing for his 23rd season and will turn 41 years old in December. James finished last season averaging 24 points per game, which is his second-lowest points per game in his career, his lowest being his rookie season, where he averaged about 21 points per game. With James hinting at retirement, ESPN reporter Brian Windhorst stated there is a possibility of him playing in other leagues after his NBA career comes to a close.
King James remains one of the best players in the NBA and is widely considered to be one of the best basketball players of all time. A move overseas post-retirement would be a decision that nobody would expect, but it can create buzz in the international basketball world. Since international leagues such as the EuroLeague and the CBA are constantly preparing players to play in the NBA, a player like James can mentor younger players and sell out local arenas, attracting loyal fans who want to watch their team play. Overseas fans would get the chance to watch one of the greatest players of all time play a game in their country, which is harder for most since NBA games are played during different time zones, which means most fans overseas don’t get the chance to see LeBron James play.
Overseas basketball is typically a lighter schedule compared to the NBA, as they do not play 82 games in a season, with multiple days of rest in between games. Playing overseas can be a valuable option for LeBron if he wants to continue playing basketball while maintaining his rest and keeping his body healthy. The end of an extraordinary NBA career will happen soon, and whether this will be King James’ final NBA season, we will be watching one of the greatest players ever to play walk away from the game. His impact will live on not just on the basketball court, but most importantly, in what he does off the court, creating a legacy and being a fantastic family man.
