
LeBron James has proven this season that he is still capable of playing at a high level, but many fans are concerned that the Los Angeles Lakers star's motivation is starting to wane. Some comments that James made after Thursday night's game will only further that narrative.
James had one of his best games of the season on Thursday with 28 points, 10 assists and seven rebounds in a 143-35 win over the Utah Jazz. On the Utah side, third-year guard Keyonte George extended his recent scoring spree with a team-high 34 points. George now has 34 or more points in his last three games and is averaging a career-high 23.9 points per game.
Following his team's win, James was asked what has stood out to him about the way George has played this season. LeBron said the 22-year-old's "confidence" has impressed him most. James was then asked if he believes George is worthy of an All-Star nod. The four-time NBA Finals MVP admitted he does not watch much basketball these days.
"I'm the wrong guy to ask that, champ. I watch YouTube golf these days, so I'm the wrong guy to ask about that," James said. "He played great tonight. He played great the last time we played them and he's playing good ball against us. I'm more into Bryan Bros and Grant Horvat and Bryson DeChambeau and the rest of those guys."
Reporter: What stands out about Keyonte George this season?
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) December 19, 2025
LeBron James: “Confidence.”
Reporter: Is he an All-Star this season?
LeBron: “I’m the wrong guy to ask that question to, champ. I watch YouTube golf these days.” pic.twitter.com/PKyPkVHDHh
A lot of people get big into golf when they retire, and James seems to be getting a head start on that. The 40-year-old was even seen practicing his golf swing on the sideline during a recent game.
Does that mean LeBron's mind has been elsewhere during games? Probably not. He is still averaging a serviceable 18.6 points, 7.5 assists and 5.8 rebounds per game. The Lakers improved to 19-7 with their win over Utah and have looked like a legitimate contender through the early part of the season.
It goes without saying that James is nearing the end of his legendary NBA career. His "YouTube golf" comment was an admission that he is not nearly as much of a basketball junkie as he used to be, which is hardly a shock.
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