Most Bettors Believe That LeBron James Won’t Retire By 2026-27 Season

The talk of LeBron James’ retirement has been heating up. With the NBA expansion looming and ownership goals in sight, could James, 40, step away before the 2026-27 NBA season tips off? Read on to find out.

Most Bettors Believe LeBron James Won’t Retire Soon

According to new analysis from Covers.com’s Chris Vasile of Kalshi’s prediction markets, 76% of bettors believe James won’t retire before the 2026-27 NBA season. Kalshi has markets that have narrowed in on when James will retire and if he’ll become a majority owner of an NBA team someday. With his $1.3 billion net worth and stake in the Fenway Sports Group, the possibility of him looking to go from owner to player is looking more inevitable than ever before. 25% of bettors believe he will become an NBA majority owner by 2030.

Outlook Entering 2025-26

James is currently nursing a nerve injury in his glute and likely won’t play in a preseason game, but he remains one of the most popular players in the NBA. He recently teased a “Second Decision” on his social media, scheduled for Tuesday, October 7, at 12:00 p.m. Eastern.

It’s unclear what the so-called “Second Decision” is, but he may announce a retirement plan, a media partnership, or a signature shoe. Whatever it is, the world will surely be watching, as the general public doesn’t call him “King James” for nothing.

Final Thoughts

James is one of the best players in the NBA. He is a shoe-in to become a Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer after his NBA career ends. The Akron, Ohio native is already a Hall of Famer as a member of the 2008 United States men’s Olympic team, also known as the “Redeem Team” that won the gold medal.

If he retires after the 2027-28 NBA season, the former first overall pick would be eligible for induction in the 2032-33 NBA season, which would be his first year of consideration.