LeBron James is reflecting on what comes next after announcing he is leaving the Los Angeles Lakers. Two weeks after the news broke, the NBA star spoke about his future at Fanatics Fest NYC on July 16.
According to E! News, James said he is now in the stage of his career where he is preparing to “wind down the final stages” of a 23-year NBA run. He added that wherever he plays next, he hopes both longtime supporters and critics will keep following along.
“Wherever I land in the fall, hopefully, if you're a ride or die LeBron fan, if you've been down with me since day one, I hope you ride with me there,” James said, according to the report. He also joked that his doubters would show up too, saying, “If you're a ride or die LeBron hater, that's what you do anyway.”
James said the next chapter will be exciting and that he plans to give it everything he has. When fans suggested possible destinations, he acknowledged teams including the Golden State Warriors, Philadelphia 76ers and Miami Heat.
His agent Rich Paul announced less than three weeks ago that James was departing the Lakers, which will make him a free agent for next season. James also said the decision affects his family as well as his own career, noting that this would be the third time he has entered free agency.
