LeBron James is taking each day as it comes, with only two weeks to go before he turns 40. On Sunday, December 15th, this meant making his return to the Los Angeles Lakers after sitting out two games within an eight-day span. James also took the opportunity to address how he had come to accept the decision to abandon his plan of playing all 82 games this season.
In a post-game interview following the Lakers’ 116-110 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies, James confessed, “If it was solely up to me, I most likely would have taken the court. It would have been a challenge to keep me away. However, I have a team, and I must heed their advice too. They have my best interests at heart.”
Dealing with a shooting slump that saw him go 0-20 from 3-point range at one point, and nursing a sore foot, James capitalized on the team’s non-advancement in the NBA Cup — a title they had clinched the previous season — and the sparse two-game schedule over a ten-day period.
“I had the chance to take extra days to prepare my mind, body, and overall state for tonight,” James remarked. “And it paid off.” He further explained about his time off, “There was extensive rehabbing and training to ensure I was primed for tonight. I didn’t want to fall too out of shape.”
The fruits of his labor were evident on Sunday as he delivered an impressive performance with 18 points, 8 rebounds, 8 assists, and 2 blocks in 34 minutes of play. Earlier this month, James had openly discussed his recent shooting struggles, attributing them to a disrupted rhythm. “I’ve been feeling out of sync over the last few games,” he had shared previously. When asked about his plans to regain his form, the Lakers’ superstar simply responded, “Work. Just work. That’s all.”
Reflecting on his decision to sit out games, James acknowledged the importance of listening to his body and the advice of his team. Despite his desire to compete, he recognized that sometimes rest and recovery are essential for long-term performance and health.
This insight into James’ mindset sheds light on the dedication and professionalism that have characterized his illustrious career. His commitment to self-care and team collaboration exemplify the qualities that have made him one of the most respected figures in professional sports. As he nears a significant milestone in age, James continues to approach each day with the same drive and focus that have defined his remarkable journey in basketball.
