During All-Star Weekend at the 2026 NBA All-Star Game, LeBron James addressed questions about his future with the league in a way that both teased and dismissed the idea of retirement. On Sunday, as part of the media availability that typically accompanies this marquee event, James spoke candidly about where his career stands and how he feels about the prospect of stepping away from the game he has dominated for more than two decades.
As reported by ClutchPoints, James’ press conference was separate from many of his peers, a choice he has made before when big moments or announcements were expected. This year, many assumed that because of the separate setting, some major news about his future might be coming. But when reporters directly asked James about retirement, he offered much the same answer he has provided in previous years: “I wanna live…When I know, you guys will know. I don’t know.”
That simple statement, delivered with the calm confidence that has defined his career, captured both his uncertainty and his viewpoint toward the question. James reiterated that he isn’t ready to make any definitive announcement about retirement yet. Instead of anchoring the conversation in speculation, he emphasized living in the moment and enjoying life as it comes, valuing it over prematurely deciding its end, like Michael Jordan.
James Seems Undecided
For James, the conversation about retirement isn’t just about his physical ability to play. He has made it clear in the past that his love for the game remains strong, and there wasn’t any indication in the press conference that his passion has waned. In fact, his response suggested that mental and emotional factors will play a central role in any decision about the future, just as much as the physical side of being an elite athlete.
It’s worth noting that James’ career has already shattered expectations about longevity and peak performance. At 41 years old, he continues to compete at a high level and remains a key figure for his team. His continued presence on the court extends his legacy as one of the greats in NBA history, and the lack of an immediate retirement plan doesn’t come as a shock to many who have followed his career.
LeBron James on Anthony Edwards:
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) February 16, 2026
“Love Ant-Man. Everything about him. On the court, off the court. Happy for him, first of many All-Star MVPs for him. I love Ant, he’s got a fan in me and a friend in me for life.”
(via @NBA, h/t @ClutchPoints)
pic.twitter.com/lGCGAVCswO
This is not the first time James has been asked about retirement in a public setting. Over the years, he has often deflected the question, preferring to focus on the season at hand and what he can still contribute on the floor. His All-Star press conference this year followed that familiar pattern. While there is ongoing interest from media and fans about what will come next, James himself firmly declined to commit to any timeline or decision during this event.
