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LeBron James, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, has signed a contract extension with the Los Angeles Lakers, setting the stage for a potentially historic season that could see the first father-son duo play as teammates in NBA history. The deal, reportedly worth $104 million over two years according to ESPN, cements James’ future with the Lakers and opens the door for a unique family legacy in professional basketball.
The 39-year-old superstar, who averaged 25.7 points, 8.3 assists, and 7.3 rebounds last season, opted out of a $51.4 million player option for the 2024-25 season to sign this new extension. James’ decision to stay with the Lakers aligns with the team’s recent draft pick of his son, Bronny James, selected 55th overall in the second round from the University of Southern California.
Bronny James’ selection by the Lakers, despite a freshman season that saw him average just 4.8 points per game, underscores the team’s commitment to potentially uniting father and son on the court. LeBron has openly expressed his desire to play alongside his son, a feat that would be unprecedented in NBA history. Hours after the draft, LeBron posted on Instagram with photos of him and Bronny on the court, captioned “LEGACY!!!!!!”
While the NBA has seen several father-son duos over the years, including Dell and Steph Curry, none have ever played simultaneously in the league. This potential pairing adds another layer to LeBron James’ already illustrious career, which includes four NBA championships, four Finals MVP awards, four regular-season MVP honors, and 20 All-Star selections.
Simultaneously, LeBron James is embarking on his fourth Olympic journey with Team USA, aiming to become the first U.S. men’s basketball player to compete in the Olympics across three different decades. James, who will turn 40 during the upcoming NBA season, joined the national team for training camp in Las Vegas, marking the start of their quest for a fifth consecutive gold medal.
James’ commitment to the Olympic team at this stage in his career is driven by his passion for the game and his desire to represent his country once more. “I’m still playing a high level,” James stated after the first practice. “I still love the game of basketball. And Team USA has done well by me, so I felt like it was important for this summer to be able to go out there and play with the rest of the guys.”
His dedication was evident from the first practice, where he impressed coaches with his work ethic. U.S. coach Steve Kerr, who has faced James in four NBA Finals, remarked on James’ intense practice habits, saying, “I was blown away by how hard he practices.”
The Olympic team presents a unique opportunity for James to play alongside long-time rival Stephen Curry, creating an intriguing dynamic that both players are excited to explore. Kerr highlighted the potential of this pairing, noting, “The idea of Steph playing off the ball, and LeBron pushing it in transition, that’s pretty intriguing.”
James’ Olympic record is impressive, with the U.S. team undefeated in the 36 games he has played since the 2006 World Championships. He ties the record for most Olympic appearances by a U.S. men’s player, alongside Carmelo Anthony and Kevin Durant, who will also be playing in his fourth Olympics this summer.
As LeBron James prepares for this multifaceted chapter in his career – potentially playing with his son in the NBA while pursuing another Olympic gold – he remains focused on his ultimate goal. “Our only goal,” he stated simply, “is to win a gold medal.”
This convergence of personal milestones, family legacy, and national representation underscores LeBron James’ enduring impact on basketball. As he balances his Lakers commitments with Olympic aspirations, the sports world watches eagerly to see how this next chapter in his storied career unfolds.
AP/NBC
