LeBron James, preparing for the 2025-26 NBA season, has sparked widespread discussion with a surprising off-court moment. The Los Angeles Lakers star, known as the NBA‘s all-time leading scorer, recently shared a video of himself demonstrating a golf swing that has drawn attention for its peculiarity. This clip, released ahead of his 41st birthday, has led to speculation about his future in basketball and beyond.
The Lakers organization continues to focus on Luka Doncic as their future centerpiece, while James appears to be preparing for his next chapter both physically and mentally. Workout footage revealed the four-time NBA champion lifting heavy weights, but the unexpected golf swing video is what truly captured fans’ attention.
Fans React to LeBron’s Unique Golf Technique with Humor and Criticism
The brief video showed James, towering at 6 feet 9 inches and weighing around 250 pounds, wearing casual golf attire as he delivered a powerful, yet unconventional swing. His follow-through and celebration after hitting the ball evoked a flurry of amusing and skeptical reactions online.
“It’s really almost over,” tweeted one observer, reflecting a sentiment of impending change in James’ basketball career. Another fan questioned his new lifestyle adjustments, asking,
“Is he starting to get used to that kind of lifestyle?”
Meanwhile, a third quipped, “Thinks he’s playing football.”
The clip was shared by former Cleveland Cavaliers teammate Kevin Love, who commented enthusiastically,
“Bron got the hit again, mother******!”
emphasizing an upbeat and playful tone despite the swing’s odd form.
Comparisons to Charles Barkley Add Fuel to Retirement Talk
Not all comments were positive. Many fans likened LeBron’s golf swing unfavorably to that of Charles Barkley, whose own attempts at golf are famously criticized. One fan bluntly declared, “That is a HORRIBLE swing,” while another asked,
“Am I watching Charles Barkley or LeBron James?”
These reactions often carried a humorous yet pointed tone, fueling speculation that James might be ready to retire from professional basketball.
Such discussions suggest that fans see golf as a potential second career for James once he steps away from the hardwood. His growing presence on golf courses during the summer months complements this view, even as the Lakers shift their focus toward Doncic as their long-term franchise player.
LeBron’s Career at a Crossroads as Future Plans Emerge
LeBron James is entering his 23rd NBA season and has been selected to 21 All-Star games—achievements that underscore his longevity and excellence. However, as the King approaches his 41st birthday and his overall impact with the Lakers seems to wane, the golf swing video symbolizes a possible turning point in his career.
The significance of this moment lies not just in the reactions but in what it hints at for James’ future. Many see this as a signal that the legendary athlete may soon transition away from basketball to explore new opportunities, potentially embracing a professional or semi-professional golf career.
As the 2025-26 NBA season approaches, all eyes remain on LeBron, watching to see whether his next shot will be on the basketball court or the golf course.