During the 2023 ESPY Awards, LeBron James surprised the crowd by participating in a fakeout.
After breaking Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s record in February, the 38-year-old star player for the Los Angeles Lakers ascended the stage to be honored as the player with the most points in the history of the National Basketball Association.
Before moving on to discuss his future in the National Basketball Association (NBA), James began by expressing his gratitude to his wife, Savannah James, and expressing his pride in his two boys, LeBron “Bronny” James Jr., who is 18 years old, and Bryce Maximus, who is 16 years old.
“When the season came to an end, I stated that I was uncertain about whether or not I would continue to play,” he remarked. “And I am aware that a great number of specialists have shared what I have to say with you all, but I am here today speaking for myself. My mind kept going back to the question of whether or not I could still play without cheating the game at that same moment.
He continued by asking, “Am I still able to give the game everything I have?” “If I’m being completely honest, I’ve been planning on asking myself this question at the conclusion of each season for the past few years. To put it simply, I never discuss it in public.”
“The day I can’t give the game everything on the floor is the day I’ll be done,” he remarked before a lengthy pause. “I’ll be done with it tomorrow.”
After the athlete made his announcement, everyone was on the edge of their seats, waiting to see if he would formally declare his retirement.
“Lucky for you guys, that day is not today,” he continued with a smile as the audience applauded when he had finished speaking.
In addition, he pointed out that it “brings me back every year” to see his sons play baseball with their respective coaches and teammates.
He stated, “When I see those children, it immediately transports me back to the place where I play.” Children like them help me come back to where I need to be… However, I do have something else that I have left. There is still a lot.”A further remarkable moment from the evening occurred as a result of the acknowledgment that was bestowed upon James. Prior to his delivery of his speech, his wife provided him with an extremely memorable introduction.