Marc J. Spears believes the NBA is witnessing the beginning of LeBron James’ farewell tour.
During a recent appearance on NBA Today, the veteran reporter said, via HoopsHype, “Teams, start figuring out how you’re going to say goodbye to this man. He’s giving you a warning.” Spears’ comments came as speculation around James’ future intensifies following his historic 22nd season.
James, who turned 40 in December, re-signed with the Lakers on a two-year, $104 million contract last summer. The deal includes a no-trade clause and a player option for 2025–26. However, with his son Bronny now on the roster and history already made as the NBA’s first father-son duo to play together, many view this season as the final chapter.
“I feel like the farewell tour is starting,” Spears said. “It’s gonna include the All-Star Game. It’s perfect for that. Get ready to get your final gifts and get the rocking chair out of there. I just feel like this is the end.”
James has continued to produce at an elite level in his 22nd campaign. He logged multiple triple-doubles, passed 50,000 combined career points in March, and surpassed several all-time marks including most career minutes played and most 30-point games.
Despite the milestones, the Lakers were eliminated in the first round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs by the Minnesota Timberwolves. James sprained a ligament in his left knee in Game 5, adding uncertainty to his offseason.
Earlier this year, he missed the All-Star Game due to foot and ankle soreness, ending his streak of 20 consecutive starts. Spears believes the next All-Star appearance — if it happens — will carry added significance.
James has not made any formal retirement announcement. But his record-setting longevity, recent injuries, and the emotional tone of Spears’ remarks have reignited conversation across the league about a possible farewell season.
The 2024–25 campaign saw James join Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as the only players to make 15,000 field goals and break numerous other franchise and league records. As Spears noted, Kareem received a boat during his final game at Golden State. The question now is what send-off awaits LeBron.
“Teams need to start preparing,” Spears said. “He’s telling you something.”
If James decides to retire after this season, it would mark the end of a 23-year career that includes four NBA championships, four MVPs, and three Olympic gold medals.
