With 22 seasons played, LeBron James has had an NBA career like no one else. The Los Angeles Lakers star has won championships with multiple teams, always ending up in GOAT discussions alongside Michael Jordan and the late Kobe Bryant.
Of course, James follows a routine for his games — with many rituals making it to his regular to-do list before a matchup.
Lakers’ LeBron James Opens Up About Following Superstitions Before NBA Games
During an appearance on the “360 with Speedy” podcast with Complex’s Speedy Morman, James ended up discussing topics ranging from his retirement, age, and pregame superstitions.
James, known to be superstitious, revealed he has a few specific game rituals.
“You, I heard, are like super superstitious. Like before the game, you lay the jersey out and nobody can step over it. Is that like a real thing for you?” the host asked James.
“Yeah, that’s a real thing,” the Lakers star confirmed.
“I am always the same unless I feel something is off,” he added. “So, like I will lay my uniform out the same way before every game. I will pick a shoe that I’m going to wear according sometimes to either the the opponent or the team. If I’m playing a certain player, a specific shoe may get worn that night just ’cause of my competitive nature.”
However, James admitted that it might not always be the same, and his routine might change depending on how he feels. The Lakers icon revealed that he could do so before the game begins or after he was absolutely terrible in the first quarter.
When asked if he knew when it would be a career-defining night, James said, “No. It just happens, man. You don’t know.”
He explained that his energy might feel differently charged, but it doesn’t mean the game would turn out that way.
James Shared a Candid Update on His NBA Retirement
Over the last few years, James’ age and eventual retirement have been a hot topic. However, the 40-year-old has yet to give a timeline on the matter. While talking to Speedy, James doubled down on not hinting at anything. Although he was self-aware that retirement was approaching soon.
LeBron on if he’s hinting at retirement with his recent endeavors:
“I’m not hinting at anything… Listen guys, every time I pick up something new, does not mean retirement… Retirement is coming, but it’s just not here just yet.”
(via @Complex) pic.twitter.com/yez2eRpXLK
— Witness King James (@WITNESSKJ) September 18, 2025
“Obviously, I’m on the other side of the hump,” James admitted. “I’m not going to play another 23 years; that’s for damn sure. I’m not gonna play another ten. I’m definitely gearing up to when the end is near. I’m not there yet.”
James reassured his fans, letting them know that while he picks up new hobbies, his retirement isn’t here until he says it is.
Gearing up for his 23rd season with the NBA, James — along with Luka Dončić — is focused on bagging another championship title with the Lakers.
