CORTLAND, NY – LeBron James has always defied expectations. But as he prepares to lead the Los Angeles Lakers into the 2025 NBA playoffs, he’s doing something even more remarkable: defying time.
Now 40 years old, James is entering his 22nd postseason run—an unprecedented milestone in the NBA. His performance this season has not just been serviceable; it’s been elite. Averaging over 24 points, 7 rebounds, and 8 assists per game, James continues to perform at a level players ten or even fifteen years younger would envy.
What sets James apart is not just his statistical output, but the way he continues to evolve. At an age when most players have long since hung up their sneakers, James remains a cornerstone of one of the league’s most storied franchises, leading the Lakers into yet another playoff campaign with championship aspirations.
“I don’t take any of this for granted,” James said earlier this month after a win that secured the Lakers’ playoff seeding. “To still be out here doing what I love, at this level, with this group—it’s special. I just stay committed to the work, to my body, and to the game.”
James’s longevity is the product of a relentless dedication to physical maintenance. According to reports, he still spends over $1 million annually on personal trainers, nutritionists, massage therapists, and recovery technology. From cryotherapy and hyperbaric chambers to daily stretching routines, every detail is carefully calibrated to prolong his prime.
“It’s not just talent. It’s discipline,” said Lakers head coach JJ Redick. “LeBron takes care of his body better than anyone I’ve ever seen. His preparation is meticulous, and his leadership is just as valuable as his scoring.”
The 2024-25 regular season has shown that while he may have lost a step in sheer speed, James has compensated with savvy decision-making and impeccable timing. His three-point shooting has improved, and his post play has become more refined, allowing him to control the pace of games even as his athleticism slightly wanes.
Beyond the physical and strategic aspects, James continues to bring a unique mental edge. With four NBA titles, four MVPs, and a résumé spanning two decades, he brings playoff experience that few others in the league can match. His presence alone raises the Lakers’ ceiling.
And it’s not just about the Lakers’ current campaign. This postseason carries added significance due to what it might represent in the broader arc of his career. James has not confirmed how many more seasons he intends to play, but speculation continues to swirl about a potential final chapter shortly, possibly alongside his son, Bronny James, who recently declared for the NBA Draft.
“There’s a sense of urgency,” said teammate Austin Reaves. “We know LeBron’s not going to be doing this forever, but the fact that he still can do it is incredible. We want to make the most of every moment we’ve got with him.”
Off the court, James remains a business mogul and cultural icon. Through his media company SpringHill, his numerous endorsements, and his philanthropic endeavors—especially the I PROMISE School in Akron—James has built a legacy that will far outlive his playing days. But for now, he’s still focused on basketball.
“I’ll know when it’s time,” James said last month. “Right now, I still feel like I have more to give. The game still speaks to me.”
As the 2025 NBA playoffs begin, all eyes will be on the Lakers—not just for their championship hopes, but for the living legend who continues to redefine what’s possible for an athlete in the modern era. Whether this postseason ends in another title or not, LeBron James has already achieved something rarer: relevance, dominance, and inspiration across two full decades.