LOS ANGELES (AFP) — The tears had barely dried on LeBron James’ Los Angeles Lakers uniform before the debate began anew.
Is the National Basketball Association (NBA) reigning monarch — “King James” — ready to give up his throne?
The 41-year-old superstar was overcome with emotion on Wednesday during the Lakers’ road game against the Cleveland Cavaliers in what might well turn out to James’ final appearance in his hometown.
James buried his face in his jersey as he attempted to keep his feelings in check while the Cavaliers played a video tribute to their prodigal hero during a first quarter break.
The moment reignited speculation that one of the most glittering careers in sporting history may be nearing its end.
Spanning three decades, James’ dazzling résumé includes four NBA championships, a slew of records, and a place atop the league’s all-time scoring list — a milestone many believe may never be surpassed.
For now, though, James is giving nothing away, declining to offer any hint as to when — or how — he might bring the curtain down.
“I don’t know what the future holds,” James told reporters when asked about possible retirement following the Lakers’ 129-99 drubbing by his former club.
James acknowledged, though, that while he has not made a decision about his future, Wednesday’s game could possibly have been his final appearance in Cleveland.
“I haven’t made a decision on the future but it very well could be,” James said.
Yet James, who is currently averaging an impressive 22 points per game in what is his record-breaking 23rd season in the league, balked at the idea that the closing months of the campaign may amount to a “farewell tour.”
“I have not even thought to the point of a farewell tour or whatever the case may be, because I haven’t had that conversation with myself and my family on, when is it over?” James said. “That will come after that.”
Before the current season got under way, James had declared himself energized by the prospect of playing alongside Luka Doncic, the 26-year-old Slovenian superstar the Lakers acquired last year in a blockbuster trade.
“The motivation to play alongside him every night, that’s super motivating,” James said.
Doncic’s arrival clearly signaled that the Lakers no longer see James as the central pillar of their long-term teambuilding.
James will be a free agent at the end of the season and if he extends his stay in Los Angeles, is likely to be asked to take a pay cut, NBA analysts believe.
Alternatively, James might seek to crown his career elsewhere — with a possible third stint in Cleveland, or even a long-rumored partnership alongside his close friend and USA team-mate Stephen Curry at the Golden State Warriors.
“LeBron has two big decisions to make when the season is over, whenever that is for the Lakers,” ESPN’s Brian Windhorst said. “One is, is he gonna play another season? And he’s made it very clear, he doesn’t seem to know, and I believe that.”