James has been seen on the sidelines for much of his career, coaching younger players on his teams, including a viral clip with Austin Reaves in his rookie year. He had recently teased his retirement in an advertisement, with his $52.6 million option for the 2026 season still waiting to be picked up.

Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James said on the latest edition of the Mind the Game podcast with Steve Nash that Metta Sandiford-Artest (formerly known as Ron Artest) was "one of the best defenders" he ever played against.

LeBron James entered the NBA in 2003 straight out of high school. The Cleveland Cavaliers drafted him with the No. 1 overall pick in the loaded 2003 NBA Draft, which featured future Hall of Famers Carmelo Anthony, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh.