LeBron James Calls Himself the Greatest of All Time in Time Magazine Interview
NBA Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James stated in a Time magazine interview that he believes he is the "Greatest Of All Time" (GOAT). The 41-year-old said his decision to continue playing depends on his mindset and mentioned the signs that would indicate it's time to retire.
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- 📰 Published: June 11, 2026 at 04:47
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(Central News Agency, Los Angeles, 10th, Combined Foreign Reports) NBA Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James said in an interview with Time magazine that he believes he is the "Greatest Of All Time" (GOAT).
According to Reuters, James, 41, has just finished his record-breaking 23rd NBA season. This season, he averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists, and 6.1 rebounds per game for the Lakers and is set to become a free agent.
James' total career games played rank among the highest in history, and he is the league's all-time leading scorer. He has been selected to the All-Star game 22 times, won the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award four times, and has won four championships.
In a profile published by Time magazine on the 8th, James was asked the classic question of who is the "Greatest Of All Time" in the NBA. He answered directly that he is the answer. "I would not put anybody above me. No doubt," he said.
However, James acknowledged that there are many great players in NBA history, naming Hall of Famers Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Earvin "Magic" Johnson, Larry Bird, and Shaquille O'Neal.
In the interview, James also discussed whether he would continue playing next season or retire. "It depends on the mindset. Where the heart goes, the body will follow," he said.
He mentioned, "When I no longer love getting to the arena five hours early to prepare for a game, or arriving two and a half hours early for practice, then I'll know it's time to stop. Because by then, I would have started cheating the game." (Editor: Chen Zhengjian) 1150611
According to Reuters, James, 41, has just finished his record-breaking 23rd NBA season. This season, he averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists, and 6.1 rebounds per game for the Lakers and is set to become a free agent.
James' total career games played rank among the highest in history, and he is the league's all-time leading scorer. He has been selected to the All-Star game 22 times, won the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award four times, and has won four championships.
In a profile published by Time magazine on the 8th, James was asked the classic question of who is the "Greatest Of All Time" in the NBA. He answered directly that he is the answer. "I would not put anybody above me. No doubt," he said.
However, James acknowledged that there are many great players in NBA history, naming Hall of Famers Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Earvin "Magic" Johnson, Larry Bird, and Shaquille O'Neal.
In the interview, James also discussed whether he would continue playing next season or retire. "It depends on the mindset. Where the heart goes, the body will follow," he said.
He mentioned, "When I no longer love getting to the arena five hours early to prepare for a game, or arriving two and a half hours early for practice, then I'll know it's time to stop. Because by then, I would have started cheating the game." (Editor: Chen Zhengjian) 1150611
FAQ
Who interviewed LeBron James?
He was interviewed by Time magazine.
What did LeBron James call himself?
He declared himself the Greatest Of All Time (GOAT).
How old is LeBron James and which team does he play for?
He is 41 years old and plays for the NBA's Los Angeles Lakers.