As LeBron James begins his 23rd NBA season, speculation continues about whether this will be the year he decides to retire. Despite subtle hints about stepping away, James shows no clear signs of slowing down and remains focused on securing a fifth championship, with the Lakers positioned as strong contenders. The question of LeBron James retirement decision 2024 is still very much unresolved, drawing attention from fans and analysts alike.
Robert Horry Weighs In on Savannah James’ Role in LeBron’s Retirement
Former NBA champion Robert Horry recently addressed the role LeBron’s wife, Savannah James, might play in influencing his retirement decision during an interview on the Big Shot Bob Podcast. Horry dismissed the idea that Savannah would pressure LeBron to quit basketball prematurely, stating that wives generally do not urge their husbands to abandon their lifelong ambitions unless the decision is entirely their own.
“There ain’t a wife out there I don’t think that’s ever going to their hub saying, ‘You gotta hang it up,'”
—Robert Horry, NBA Champion and Commentator
Horry touched on the well-publicized divorce of Tom Brady and Gisele Bündchen to highlight how such personal dynamics do not necessarily dictate a sports star’s career decisions.
“We see what happened with the guy down in Tampa Bay.”
—Robert Horry, NBA Champion and Commentator
The Strength of LeBron and Savannah’s Longtime Partnership
LeBron and Savannah James have been together since high school, and their decades-long marriage is rooted in mutual support. Savannah’s independence and ability to manage their household have been pivotal in enabling LeBron to focus on his basketball career for so many years. Horry emphasized that wives who have witnessed their husbands’ dedication are unlikely to push them to give up on their passion.
“This is what they live for, this is what they die for. And I don’t think any wife out there will say you walk away from your dream,”
—Robert Horry, NBA Champion and Commentator
Horry Shares Personal Experience About Retirement Conversations
Robert Horry reflected on his own retirement discussions with his first wife, indicating that instead of urging him to stop playing, she cautioned that life away from basketball might be dull. Ultimately, Horry retired after 16 seasons due to a mix of wanting to spend more time with his children and the physical toll of years on the court.
“be bored as s*** around the house.”
—Robert Horry, NBA Champion and Commentator
Family Considerations in LeBron James’ Future Plans
LeBron James’ family situation adds another dimension to his retirement contemplation. He currently plays alongside his eldest son, Bronny, while his second son, Bryce, is a freshman in college in Arizona and is eligible for the NBA draft next year if he chooses to turn pro. His youngest child, Zhuri, is nine years old, which suggests LeBron could still continue playing for a couple more years without sacrificing family time. Ultimately, the retirement choice remains private between LeBron and Savannah, leaving fans hopeful for at least a few more seasons.