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As LeBron James approaches his 41st birthday, the conversation around his career has shifted from legacy to longevity.
After more than two decades in the NBA, the Los Angeles Lakers superstar continues to produce at a level most players never reach, let alone sustain into their forties.
James addressed his age following Sunday night’s game, reflecting on how surreal it feels to still be performing near his peak after entering the league in 2003.
In doing so, he referenced a commercial he filmed in 2023 alongside actor Jason Momoa, who portrayed “Father Time.”
“I’m kicking [Father Time’s] ass on the back nine.”
“I’m in a battle with [Father Time] and I would like to say I’m kicking his ass on the back nine” – LeBron James, two days before his 41st birthday, on testing his limits in his 23rd season pic.twitter.com/FcuvqLJn1L
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) December 29, 2025
The quote was delivered with a smile, but the numbers back it up. After an injury slowed the start of his season, James needed time to find rhythm. That rhythm has returned in a big way.
Over his last eight games, James is averaging 25.4 points per game, pushing his season average back above 20 points once again.
The production stands out even more considering the mileage on his body. James is in his 23rd NBA season, an era when most of his peers are either retired or long removed from elite-level basketball.
Yet night after night, he continues to anchor one of the league’s most high-profile franchises.
Father Time, of course, remains undefeated. James is realistic enough to know that the end is closer than the beginning. Still, there is no immediate decision looming.
The Lakers star has not indicated when he plans to step away from the game, and there is little urgency to do so while his body and performance remain intact.
James is set to become a free agent at the conclusion of the 2025–26 season.
That leaves multiple paths open. If he continues to feel physically capable, another championship chase remains on the table, whether that comes in Los Angeles or elsewhere. If the grind finally catches up, the offseason would provide a natural moment to walk away.
READ MORE: JJ Redick Explains Why Lakers Have Lost Their Way Since LeBron’s Return
