LeBron James says there's 'zero chance' of this career role

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) reacts during the first half in Game 5 of first round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena. Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

LeBron James admits there's 'zero chance' of this post playing career role

By Adam Taylor | Last updated Jun 16, 2025 6:36 PM ET

LeBron James is unequivocally viewed as one of the greatest basketball players of all time. Not only has he enjoyed a long and highly successful career, but he's also defined multiple teams' championship eras and has an argument for a statue with at least two of his three teams.

However, when you look past his on-court production, it also becomes clear that he boasts an exceptional basketball IQ. It's for that reason that many can envision James assuming a coaching role once his career comes to an end.

During a recent episode of his "Mind The Game" podcast, James moved swiftly to kill the notion that he would coach in the NBA.

“There's no way. There's no way, guys… It ain't happening," James said. "No team. Zero chance."

"There's no way… It ain't happening. No team. Zero chance."

LeBron James on the chances of coaching an NBA team

(via @mindthegamepod)pic.twitter.com/qX9ufTnAGJ
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) June 16, 2025

James is a billionaire. He is far more likely to move into ownership than to become a coach. In truth, there is little that he could accomplish by moving onto the sidelines. If anything, it could hurt his reputation rather than help cement it.

After more than two decades in the NBA as a player, James will likely step away from the league upon his retirement. He moved to Los Angeles due to its connections with Hollywood, as shown by "Space Jam: A New Legacy." James likely has other goals in life that he wants to accomplish, and will come back to the league when a team is available for purchase.

James is currently weighing up whether to return to the NBA for another season or whether now is the right time to walk away. At 40 years old, there is little more for him to accomplish. However, if he feels the Lakers are close to winning another championship, the chance at adding another ring to his resume may be too good to pass up.

Still, we should all prepare for a league without James. That day is already on the horizon. When it gets here, the league won't ever be the same. Having him as a coach or team owner won't change that, either.

Adam Taylor

Adam Taylor is a sports journalist based out of the UK. Adam has been covering the NBA for nearly a decade with a core focus on the Boston Celtics. He currently holds bylines with Yardbarker, SB Nation and USA Today

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