Superstar LeBron James has already achieved almost every form of success imaginable, from four NBA championships to three Olympic gold medals. However, at the age of 39, "King James" appears to have set a new goal in his sights. What are his expectations with the LA Lakers as he enters the 2024-25 NBA season? This article by V9Bet will guide you through his plans.
LeBron James’ story
LeBron James’ story began on December 30, 1994, in Akron, Ohio, when he was born into a family facing significant challenges. His mother, Gloria Marie James, was only 16, and his father, Anthony McClelland, had a long criminal record. Fortunately, local football coach Frank Walker recognized LeBron's potential, took him under his wing, and introduced him to basketball at the age of nine. LeBron grew into a talented athlete, with both the NBA and NFL eyeing him for greatness.
However, LeBron's basketball career shone brighter than his football prospects. As a high school student, he shattered records and drew attention from NBA teams before graduation. Ultimately, the Cleveland Cavaliers signed him in 2003. While the team missed the playoffs that year, the 19-year-old LeBron secured the NBA Rookie of the Year Award.
The rest, as they say, is history. LeBron joined the Miami Heat in 2011, leading them to consecutive NBA championships in 2012 and 2013. He then returned to the Cavaliers in 2015, helping them win their first NBA title in 2016. In 2018, he moved to the LA Lakers, where he secured another NBA championship in 2020. He is currently the all-time leading scorer in NBA history, surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s record of 38,387 points on February 8, 2023.
LeBron James' Goals with the LA Lakers
LeBron James signed a 2-year contract extension with the LA Lakers on July 7, 2023, which keeps him with the team through the 2025-26 season. Beyond the $104 million he will earn, "King James" is likely aiming to break more records, including surpassing Vince Carter as the NBA player with the most games played. However, his age has sparked criticism, with some questioning if he is too old to carry the team to success.
However, LeBron’s goal isn’t just about statistics. His extension with the Lakers coincides with the team drafting his son, Bronny James. One of LeBron’s dreams has always been to play alongside his son in the NBA. Despite Bronny's talent being far from his father’s, and dealing with congenital heart issues that caused his heart to stop on the court in 2023, this dream remains a driving force for LeBron.
As a global superstar, LeBron James has ties to figures like Sean "Diddy" Combs, the rap mogul who is currently facing serious allegations and is behind bars. Diddy’s notorious lifestyle, particularly for hosting controversial parties, once drew LeBron's praise in 2020 when the NBA legend posted about attending one of Diddy’s events. However, the two have grown distant over the years, and it’s unlikely that this scandal will affect LeBron’s performance on the court.
The 2024-25 NBA season kicks off on October 22
The 2024-25 NBA season kicks off on October 22, 2024, and runs through June 5, 2025. Preseason games will take place from October 4 to October 15, 2024, followed by the regular season from October 22, 2024, to April 13, 2025. Afterward, the Play-in Tournament will be held from April 15-18, 2025, and the Playoffs will run from April 19, 2025, until June 2025, with the Finals on June 5, 2025.
The Boston Celtics, last year's champions, are favorites to repeat this season after winning an impressive 64 games and losing just 18. Head Coach Joe Mazzulla's main task is to maintain that performance, with stars like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown leading the offense, while Jrue Holiday, Derrick White, and Al Horford solidify the defense. However, their success will largely depend on the team's health throughout the season.
Another team to watch is the Oklahoma City Thunder. Though their 2023-24 campaign ended in disappointment despite winning 57 games, Head Coach Mark Daigneault is expected to build on their young squad, averaging just 24 years old. With stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren improving, and new additions like Alex Caruso and Isaiah Hartenstein, the Thunder are poised to make noise this season.
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Whatever the outcome of LeBron James' 2024-25 season with the LA Lakers, one historic moment will be written: the father-son duo of LeBron and Bronny James becoming the first to play together on the same NBA team. Watching his son take steps toward his own legendary path might even reignite LeBron’s hunger for more success. Follow every step of "King James" and "Prince James" on V9Bet, Thailand's No. 1 sports betting platform.