Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James has recently taken up golf, dedicating time to the sport during his offseason. This new pursuit echoes the path of basketball great Michael Jordan, James’s longtime rival, who also became deeply involved in golf later in his career.

Golf has become a common passion among basketball legends, with former NBA players such as Charles Barkley also making the sport a key interest after their basketball careers. James, now 40, appears to be following this trend as he seeks new challenges beyond the court.

Stephen Curry Supports LeBron’s Golf Journey

Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry is an avid golfer and a close friend of LeBron James, both members of the 2024 Team USA basketball squad. Given Curry’s connection to golf and his relationship with James, he has offered insight into James’s burgeoning enthusiasm for the game.

“We all want to welcome LeBron James to the world of golf because the game needs you, big fella,”

Curry told Sky Sports.

“He’s obsessed with it. He’s out there a lot more than I actually thought he’d be right off the jump. So he gets it, which is great.”

“But yeah, we’ll definitely get out and play. I’m an amateur swing coach. I feel like I always help somebody else with their swing, even though I probably don’t know what I’m talking about.”

“But he seems like a very good project to have for sure. And it seems like he has fun out there on the court. So I don’t mind that at all.”

LeBron’s Growing Passion for Golf

James has shown a sincere commitment to golf, even sharing an Instagram story playing in the rain earlier this August, highlighting his dedication despite challenging conditions.

“Addicted. I’m sorry. I know, yep, that’s it. Yep. Rain and everything,”

James said in the clip.

Potential for Exciting Future Golf Showdowns

LeBron James’s involvement in golf opens up intriguing possibilities for future match-ups against fellow athletes who are passionate about the sport. Competitions featuring James against Stephen Curry, Michael Jordan, Charles Barkley, or former teammate J.R. Smith could become popular events, drawing attention from basketball and golf fans alike.

As James’s NBA career approaches its final stages, golf offers a competitive outlet that can keep his competitive spirit alive well beyond his time on the basketball court.