As the Los Angeles Lakers prepare for the 2024-25 NBA season, the spotlight continues to shine brightly on LeBron James. Now entering his 22nd season, the four-time NBA champion and future Hall of Famer remains a dominant force on the court despite defying the natural aging process that has limited so many other athletes before him. In a recent statement, Lakers owner Jeanie Buss reignited a long-standing debate in the basketball world, proclaiming LeBron James as possibly the greatest player in NBA history.
While this declaration comes as no surprise to the millions of fans who have watched James redefine what is possible for a professional athlete over the course of two decades, Buss’ remarks have added further weight to a conversation that has spanned generations. Could LeBron James, a player who continues to rewrite the NBA record books at the age of 39, truly be the greatest of all time (GOAT)?
Jeanie Buss’ Bold Statement
Jeanie Buss, the longtime controlling owner and president of the Lakers, has witnessed her fair share of greatness in the storied franchise’s history. She was at the helm during the final years of Kobe Bryant’s career, overseeing the franchise as they navigated a post-Bryant era that culminated in the acquisition of LeBron James in 2018. The Lakers’ history of greatness spans decades, from Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in the 1980s to Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant in the 2000s.
In a recent interview, Buss was candid in her praise of James, stating, “LeBron James might be the greatest player to ever play this game. What he’s accomplished both on and off the court is truly remarkable, and the fact that he’s still playing at such a high level as he enters his 22nd season is just mind-blowing. We’re fortunate to have him represent the Lakers.”
For Buss, this is more than just a personal statement. It’s a testament to LeBron’s impact on the Lakers organization since his arrival. His presence helped lead the team to their 17th NBA championship in 2020, tying the Boston Celtics for the most in league history. In a city where basketball royalty has always been revered, LeBron has earned his place among the legends who have donned the purple and gold.
A Career of Unprecedented Longevity
LeBron James’ longevity has become one of the defining aspects of his legacy. While most players see a decline in their performance as they approach their mid-30s, James has seemingly found a way to stave off Father Time. Entering his 22nd season, he remains one of the most productive and versatile players in the NBA, continuing to lead the Lakers both statistically and as a vocal leader in the locker room.
In the 2023-24 season, LeBron averaged 28.9 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 6.8 assists per game, numbers that would be impressive for any All-Star, let alone a 39-year-old veteran. What makes these stats even more remarkable is the workload he carried throughout the season. Despite battling nagging injuries, James logged heavy minutes and consistently delivered in clutch moments, particularly during the Lakers’ playoff push.
One of the key elements to James’ ability to maintain such a high level of play is his commitment to taking care of his body. LeBron has long been known for investing heavily in his physical fitness, reportedly spending over a million dollars annually on personal trainers, nutritionists, and recovery treatments. His dedication to maintaining his physical condition is as legendary as his performances on the court.
Former teammate Dwyane Wade once joked, “LeBron is like a machine. It’s like he doesn’t age.” But the reality is that James’ success is no accident—it’s the product of years of hard work, attention to detail, and an insatiable drive to be the best.
A Legacy Beyond Numbers
While LeBron James’ statistical achievements are astonishing, his impact on the game goes far beyond the numbers. Over the course of his career, he has revolutionized the way basketball is played, contributing to the positionless style that defines the modern NBA. As a 6’9″ forward with the passing ability of a point guard, the strength of a center, and the athleticism of a wing, LeBron has redefined the concept of a superstar.
LeBron’s versatility is evident in his ability to excel in multiple roles. He can be the primary ball handler, orchestrating the offense with his elite court vision and basketball IQ. He can dominate in the post, using his size and strength to overpower defenders. And when his team needs a clutch bucket, he has proven time and again that he can rise to the occasion, whether by driving to the basket or knocking down a game-winning three-pointer.
One of the more understated aspects of James’ career is his consistency. Since his rookie year in 2003, LeBron has never averaged fewer than 25 points per game over the course of a season—a streak that spans two decades. His durability, combined with his ability to adapt his game as he’s aged, has allowed him to remain at the top of the league for longer than any player before him.
LeBron James: The Face of Player Empowerment
Beyond his on-court achievements, LeBron James has also had a profound impact on the league’s culture and the way players view their careers. James is widely considered the face of the player empowerment movement—a trend in which athletes have taken greater control of their destinies, particularly when it comes to free agency and trade demands.
LeBron’s decision to leave Cleveland for Miami in 2010, in what became known as “The Decision,” was a landmark moment in NBA history. It was the first time a player of his caliber had taken such a public, calculated approach to free agency, and it set the tone for the rest of the league. James’ move to Miami was met with criticism at the time, but it ultimately led to two championships and a reevaluation of how superstar players approach their careers.
In subsequent years, James returned to Cleveland, where he delivered a championship in 2016, before heading to Los Angeles to join the Lakers. Each of these moves was driven by LeBron’s desire to maximize his opportunities, both on the court and off. His influence can be seen in the decisions made by younger stars like Kevin Durant, Kawhi Leonard, and Anthony Davis, who have all taken control of their careers in ways that were previously uncommon.
Chasing the GOAT: Michael Jordan vs. LeBron James
No discussion of LeBron James’ legacy would be complete without addressing the debate that has persisted throughout his career: Is LeBron James the greatest player of all time? The conversation typically revolves around James and Michael Jordan, the six-time NBA champion and cultural icon who dominated the league in the 1990s.
For Jordan’s supporters, the argument often hinges on his perfect Finals record (6-0) and his impact on the game’s global popularity. Jordan’s competitiveness, skill, and ability to rise to the occasion in the biggest moments have cemented his place as a sports legend.
LeBron’s supporters, on the other hand, point to his unprecedented longevity, versatility, and ability to succeed in different eras of basketball. While Jordan’s prime was shorter, LeBron has been dominant for nearly two decades. He is now the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s longstanding record in 2023—a feat that many believe solidifies his case as the GOAT.
Jeanie Buss’ comments reflect this ongoing debate, and while she stopped short of definitively naming LeBron as the greatest, her acknowledgment of his impact speaks volumes. “LeBron has changed the game, no doubt about it,” Buss said. “What he’s done on the court and off is unmatched, and he’s still going.”
The Final Chapters of an Unparalleled Career
As LeBron James enters his 22nd season, there is no doubt that his career is already one of the greatest in the history of sports. Whether he is ultimately crowned the greatest player of all time is a debate that will continue long after he retires. What is certain, however, is that LeBron has left an indelible mark on the NBA.
As he approaches 40 years old, LeBron’s motivation remains as strong as ever. His goal is clear: to add another championship to his resume and further solidify his legacy as not only one of the best to ever play the game but as a leader, a trailblazer, and an ambassador for the sport of basketball.
In a league filled with young talent, LeBron James stands as a towering figure—a player who continues to defy expectations and redefine what it means to be great. And for fans of the game, every moment he spends on the court is another opportunity to witness history in the making.