In recent years, the trend of athletes fading away in their mid-30s has shifted, with stars like LeBron James defying age norms by maintaining elite performance well into their late 30s and 40s. UFC Hall of Famer Daniel Cormier, who retired at 41, discussed on Club Shay Shay with Shannon Sharpe how access to advanced recovery methods and smarter training have extended athletic careers.
Cormier explained,
“Because of the access to recovery,”
athletes today manage their bodies differently. Younger competitors recognize that while they may feel fine at 25 or 30, underlying physical issues require careful attention to maintain peak condition.
He continued,
“But those guys in their 20s and 30s, they’re not rejecting the body anymore,”
adding,
“They’re saying at 25, while I may feel great, I know there are problems underlying for me that I need to address. Make sure that I’m straight. And I think that’s why they’re playing so long, but they’re playing at an elite level.”
LeBron James’ Approach to Longevity and Performance
Improvements in sports science have equipped players with tools to extend their careers. LeBron James exemplifies this trend, just completing his 22nd NBA season with the Los Angeles Lakers while maintaining impressive averages: 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per game in 2024-25. At 40 years old, James shows no signs of slowing down and seems poised to continue competing at a high level for several more years.
Contrary to rumors, James has denied spending $1 million annually on body maintenance but acknowledges investing significantly in recovery methods, including sessions in hyperbaric chambers. Beyond physical upkeep, James credits mental discipline as a crucial factor in sustaining his elite status over time.
Other Veteran NBA Stars Still Dominating the Court
LeBron is not alone in his longevity. Stephen Curry (37) and Kevin Durant (36) continue to excel, proving that veteran players can remain highly competitive if they avoid major injuries. Their sustained presence reinforces the idea that careful management of body and mind plays a vital role in extending careers at the highest levels.
Daniel Cormier’s Prediction for Bronny James’ NBA Future
While seasoned stars approach the twilight of their careers, the next generation is just emerging. LeBron James Jr., known as Bronny James, started his NBA journey with the Lakers in 2024-25, appearing in limited roles and showing promise primarily in the G League and Summer League.
Cormier is optimistic about Bronny’s prospects, saying,
“For LeBron James Jr. to be in the NBA, it’s nuts,”
and went on to predict,
“LeBron James Jr., if he can stay in the league for 10 years, that to me would be astounding … and he will.”
Bronny posted modest stats in his rookie season but demonstrated potential as a two-way player, which could secure him a long-term place in the league if his development continues upward.
Shaquille O’Neal’s View on LeBron James Compared to Other Stars
NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal has expressed confidence that LeBron James still outperforms other top players like Luka Doncic and Giannis Antetokounmpo. This endorsement adds to the recognition of James’ exceptional ability to sustain elite play despite advancing age.
The Significance of Longevity in Professional Sports
The evolving approach to athlete health and recovery is reshaping sports, allowing players like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant to defy expectations and remain dominant longer. Daniel Cormier’s insights underscore the importance of understanding and respecting the body to extend peak performance.
As Bronny James embarks on his professional path, his potential decade-long career could mark a new chapter in this trend, illustrating how preparation and care can help athletes at all levels maintain longevity in demanding sports. Fans and analysts alike will watch closely to see how these developments influence the future of basketball and athlete careers overall.