LeBron James, widely regarded as one of basketball’s greatest players, is now dealing with personal pressure to retire, as revealed by his wife, Savannah James. This development comes amid LeBron’s decision to extend his historic NBA career into an unprecedented 23rd season.
During a recent gathering in New York City with close friends including Miami Heat forward Kevin Love, LeBron was overheard saying,
“[Savannah] wants me to f***ing retire in the next year or so.”
—LeBron James
This candid moment highlights the off-court influence on the 40-year-old superstar’s future, as family considerations increasingly weigh on his decisions. Savannah, his high school sweetheart and wife of 12 years, has expressed privately her desire for LeBron to step away from basketball sooner rather than later.
Family Ties and the Weight of Legacy
LeBron and Savannah have shared over two decades together, raising three children: Bronny, Bryce, and Zhuri. Bronny James has recently made his own NBA debut, joining his father at the professional level, while Bryce is committed to playing college basketball at Arizona and could enter the NBA within the next few years.
For Savannah, the prospect of her husband ending a near-lifetime dedication to basketball in order to spend more time with their family seems natural and well-deserved. Despite the pressure, LeBron continues to pursue his career actively, having just opted into a $52.6 million contract for the 2025–26 NBA season.
LeBron’s Ongoing Commitment to Basketball and Record-Breaking Career
With this new contract, LeBron James is set to surpass Vince Carter for the longest NBA career ever, entering his 23rd season. Sources close to him indicate no firm decision has been made regarding retirement, as he remains determined to compete at the highest level.
Last season, LeBron maintained elite performance statistics, averaging 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds per game, with a shooting efficiency of 51.3%. His on-court impact remains substantial, though his playing time is managed carefully to extend his career.
Yet the physical and emotional demands of the sport—including relentless travel, constant media attention, and championship expectations—place increasing strain not only on James but also on those closest to him, particularly Savannah.
Balancing Legacy, Family, and Future Possibilities
Savannah’s encouragement for LeBron to retire underscores her concern for his well-being and a desire for the couple to enjoy more family time. LeBron’s unmatched accomplishments include four NBA championships and the all-time scoring record, achievements that affirm his legacy beyond doubt.
With one son already sharing the professional stage and another soon potentially following, retiring while still performing at an elite level could represent a fitting close to LeBron’s unparalleled career.
For now, however, the veteran superstar continues to chase victory and personal milestones, embracing the chance for one more season and perhaps one final opportunity to balance competing calls: the drive for NBA glory and the lasting embrace of home.