DENVER, COLORADO - DECEMBER 25: Former NBA player JJ Redick works for ESPN at Ball Arena on December 25, 2023 in Denver, Colorado. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jamie Schwaberow/Getty Images)
Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James is entering the final years of his career, but remarkably, he can still play at a high level 21 years later.
James has had a historic career, last year becoming the league’s all-time leading scorer. Now, the four-time champion is looking to add on a championship or two to solidify his resume. Coming off a Western Conference Finals appearance, L.A. may be able to get their 18th championship sooner rather than later.
Another thing that has not declined is his popularity, as the attention is something James has dealt with throughout his basketball playing career even dating back to his St. Vincent-St. Mary’s days. Being the icon that he is and wearing the purple and gold, the Ohio native still ranks No. 3 among the league’s top-selling jerseys.
It is also worth noting that the Lakers rank No. 1 in the league for top-selling merchandise, which is not surprising due to L.A. being one the most popular franchises in all of sports.
But it is extremely impressive for James to still be near the top of the top-selling jerseys as his years in the league are limited. With all the accolades, there will never be another player like LeBron as his career is far from ordinary.
As the new faces of the league have been identified, like Jayson Tatum, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Luka Doncic and Devin Booker, it’ll be interesting to see if those players will be able to surpass James in sales as he remains in the league. Nonetheless, it is impressive for the Lakers star to sustain this absurd notoriety through 21 seasons and counting.
