Paul Pierce believes the 2025–26 campaign could mark the end of LeBron James’ legendary NBA career.
As reported by Dallas Hoops Journal, the Boston Celtics Hall of Famer shared his outlook on the Los Angeles Lakers star, who just completed his 22nd season in the league.
“If I’m a betting man, I think this will be his last season,” Pierce said. “You know, I think he’s played 21, 22 years. He’s been the GOAT for so long. He’s maintained the stats. We appreciate what he brought to the game and how he’s held the mantle since (Michael) Jordan left. Bron is one of them ones. We appreciate him. But I think his time is up. But we appreciate what he’s done for the league.”
James, who turned 40 in December, has continued to defy expectations with his performance. This past season, he averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists over 70 games, maintaining efficiency from the field and long range.
The four-time champion has already secured his place among the game’s greatest. He became the first player to surpass 50,000 combined points in regular season and playoffs, passed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for most career minutes, and continues to rank in the top five of multiple all-time categories.
James also shared the floor with his son Bronny James this season, making NBA history as the league’s first father-son duo.
