Superstar LeBron James may be in the later stages of his career, but he continues to perform at a remarkable level for the Los Angeles Lakers. His longevity is truly impressive, as he has maintained an All-NBA caliber performance for two decades straight, a feat unmatched by any other player. This longevity is often cited as a key factor in considering James as the greatest of all time (GOAT) in basketball, surpassing even the legendary Michael Jordan.
Recently, forward Giannis Antetokounmpo expressed his belief in James as the GOAT over Jordan in an interview with Joe Vardon. Antetokounmpo stated, “Some guys might sаy he is No. 2, but other guys like me, I sаy he is No. 1, and he’s still going.” His sentiment is shared by many players from the younger generation who have competed against James, recognizing his consistent dominance even in the latter stages of his career.
In the previous season, James averaged an impressive 28.9 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 6.8 assists per game for the Lakers. While it remаins uncertain if he can still be the primary option on a championship-contending team at this stage of his NBA journey, it is highly plausible that he can continue to play a crucial role on a title-winning roster. James has not only excelled on the court but has also been a stellar ambassador for the NBA. He has maintained a clean off-court image without any scandals, consistently promoting the game and pushing basketball forward. He serves as an exemplary representative for the league, and in his interview with Vardon, Antetokounmpo highlighted that James has set a blueprint for modern NBA players.
For over 21 years, James has demonstrated exceptional professionalism, taking care of his family, leading by example, and prioritizing a stable and positive personal life. Antetokounmpo expressed admiration for James’s ability to maintain a healthy work-life balance and provide a nurturing environment for his family. He sees James as an inspiration for other players to aspire to both on and off the court.
James’s conduct, both professionally and personally, has made him the ideal face of the NBA throughout his career. His commitment to his teams, lack of disruptive behavior, and positive influence have solidified his status as one of the league’s greatest representatives. When the time comes for James to retire from basketball, it will undoubtedly be a bittersweet moment for many fans who have appreciated his contributions to the sport.