Former Lakers star Kyle Kuzma recently opened up on his former teammate and revealed that he's not surprised by his continued success. According to Kuzma, LeBron James' longevity is a testament to his work ethic and his dedication to staying focused on the game.
“That’s what happens when he just keeps the main thing the main thing," said Kuzma, via Daniel Starkand of Lakers Nation. "He has his whole life, everybody sees the glitz and glamours, the commercials and everything else that comes with being LeBron James, but he keeps basketball and his work ethic and his body as priority No. 1 at all times,” Kuzma said. “I think it’s just a good lesson for everybody, every young player in this league watching a player like that. I know I had a front-row seat for a few years and he’s earned and deserves everything that has really come his way because he goes about it the right way.”
We all know what LeBron has been doing this season, but it's even more impressive when you realize that this is just the latest stretch of a 20-year track record. Having spent millions of dollars and countless hours to preserve his body and neutralize the effects of aging, LeBron's dedication to his conditioning is a huge reason why he's built such an impressive resume for his NBA career.
Since being drafted in 2003, LeBron has embraced being the face of the league and he's passed every test thrown his way with flying colors. Even today, after everything he's done, he's still looking to expand on his basketball story. Even after 20+ years of greatness, LeBron is not yet satisfied and he's going to chase victories as long as he's still active in an NBA uniform.
The End Is Close For LeBron James
Through 53 games this season, LeBron is averaging 25.3 points, 7.9 assists, and 7.1 rebounds per game on 52.5% shooting. He's been the hero all season long for the Lakers, and perhaps the only reason why they are still in the playoff picture in the West.
Even so, LeBron has already shown an interest in retirement and his first mention of it came just a few months ago after being swept by the Nuggets. Of course, LeBron returned for another season and many are expecting him to return for at least one more before it's all said and done.
Beyond that, it's anyone's guess what LeBron has planned. Other than competing with his son, James has nothing left to play for in the NBA as a 4x champion, 4x MVP, and the NBA's all-time leading scorer. Set to turn 40 in December, LeBron will start to slow down eventually even if some people believe he can keep going for another five years.
What will happen after James walks away remains to be seen, but it's something that the NBA hasn't experienced in over 20 years. At the very least, LeBron is leaving knowing that he set the standard for other stars going forward.
With 20 years of greatness and counting under his belt, LeBron's legacy will never be easily matched and it's one that tells the importance of hard work and dedication to one's craft. As his former Lakers teammate, Kyle Kuzma had a front-row seat to LeBron's approach and it clearly left a strong impression on his young career.
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