LeBron James Could Reportedly Join Amazon Prime’s NBA Coverage

At 40 years old, LeBron James has no doubt put some major thought into his NBA retirement, and there may already be something in the works. According to the latest intel from Front Office Sports, the King's ties to Amazon could lead to a spot on their NBA media coverage crew.

“Where there’s smoke, there’s fire between LeBron James and Amazon. The growing business relationship between the basketball superstar and the nation’s largest retailer could lead to King James eventually joining Prime Video’s upcoming coverage of the NBA, sources tell Front Office Sports.”

After partnering with Turner Sports for years, the NBA just recently finalized an 11-year media rights deal with Amazon that will bring highlights, original content, and high-quality studio shows to the platform. The Amazon team is comprised of trusted NBA journalists, including Taylor Rooks, Dwyane Wade, Candis Parker, and Dirk Nowitzki.

"I think Amazon Prime Video, they’re going to do a great job showcasing our sport; [the talent] love(s) our sport," said James on the new deal between the NBA and Amazon. "Great intellect, great commentary, great insight — I really look forward to that. And like I said, those guys that have signed up for it, they’re going to do great things.”

While there is nothing officially in the works between LeBron and Amazon, he's already working with them on the 'Mind the Game' podcast (acquired by Amazon Music in 2020). His production company, 'SpringHill', also frequently collaborates with Amazon. 

Clearly, LeBron likes the way Amazon is heading, and he's much more likely to join them over a media empire like ESPN. James has spoken out against the media giant before, criticising their "negative" and dramaticised coverage of the NBA. He condemns the modern NBA discourse and wants to set a new precedent for how we talk about the game.

With Amazon, James can do that and more, but it remains to be seen when his career will end. After some encouragement from his kids, James has been inspired to play longer, and it could be years before he's ready to retire.

When he eventually does, a number of places will be waiting to offer him a job. With years of experience and an unmatched understanding of the game, LeBron would make the perfect analyst, and there's no doubt he would draw a lot of attention as a 4x champion, 4x MVP, and future Hall of Famer.

For now, LeBron's only focus is on the Lakers and finishing out his career in a way that's fitting to his legacy. He cannot afford any distractions now, and LeBron will have to lean on his podcast for a while in order to spread a more positive narrative on the game. After retirement, James' trajectory is entirely up to him.

If Amazon can land the basketball superstar, it would be a massive boost to their cause and a major win for NBA fans, who will have one of the greatest legends of the game offering their unique perspective regularly.