LeBron James' agent reveals why he didn't retire

LeBron James. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

LeBron James' agent reveals why he didn't retire

By Ernesto Cova | Last updated Jul 25, 2026 11:30 AM ET

The Philadelphia 76ers have become the new team to beat in the Eastern Conference.

LeBron James has made his "final decision," signing a two-year bargain deal with the 76ers to pursue his fifth NBA championship in the City of Brotherly Love.

Notably, not many people saw this decision coming, perhaps not even his own camp.

In the latest edition of his "Game Over" podcast, LeBron's agent, Rich Paul, revealed that James actually considered retiring last season, but his series against the Houston Rockets made him change his mind.

LeBron James was close to retirement after last season

“That series in my opinion, convinced him to keep playing. I truly believe that. I think if they somehow got swept or lose 4-1 in that series, it could be different. I think that gave us another ride,” Paul said.

Rich Paul believes LeBron James beating the Rockets last year without Luka is what led him not to retire

“That series in my opinion, convinced him to keep playing. I truly believe that. I think if they somehow got swept or lose 4-1 in that series, it could be different. I… https://t.co/bf7a56SlVY pic.twitter.com/sA5Yqk9KEC
— NBA Courtside (@NBA__Courtside) July 24, 2026

While James had already proved that he could still perform at a high level, his series vs. the Rockets was certainly a testament to his longevity and greatness.

With no Luka Doncic and also missing Austin Reaves for most of the series, James still averaged 23.2 points, 7.3 assists, and 6.7 rebounds per game in the playoffs, keeping JJ Redick's team alive for a little longer.

Now, James will play on one of the most stacked teams in recent years, and while some may criticize him for that again, it will actually ensure that he doesn't have to do all of the heavy lifting.

Who knows? It might even help him play for more than two years if he wants.

Ernesto Cova

Ernesto is a bilingual (English-Spanish) sports writer with over eight years of experience covering major leagues such as the NBA, NFL, and MLB. Ernesto’s work focuses on providing insightful, up-to-date coverage of sports, blending his expertise in sports psychology with a passion for analyzing player performance, team dynamics, and trade developments across various sports leagues

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