Redick and Shaq lauded LeBron for longevity and leadership.
JJ Redick-LeBron James connection, explained: Did podcast co-host play a role in Lakers coaching decision? | Sporting News

LeBron James’ longevity is unparalleled. He just finished his 21st NBA season in 2023-24, tying him for the second-most in history behind Vince Carter. LBJ’s 22 seasons will tie him with VC for the most seasons ever.

However, beyond his many seasons is his unbelievably long streak of averaging 25 points per game for nearly as many seasons as he appeared in the Association. That’s something his new head coach, JJ Redick, has picked up on. Now that he’ll be in charge of running the Lakers, the former sharpshooter will get the opportunity to watch James extend his streak next season.

“What makes him [LeBron James] great is the fact that he’s done it now 21 years at the highest level,” Redick said on ‘The Big Podcast with Shaq.’ “Like, you talk about scoring, that’s great. So, one guy averaged 35 in a year – LeBron never averaged 35 in a year. Guess what? He’s averaged 25 [points] or more for 20 straight years. No one had 15 of those years.”

Finishing the previous season averaging nearly 26 points per game, we have no reason to believe that James won’t average over 25 points next season, either. LeBron’s vastly improved three-point shot late in his career has boosted his ability to put the ball in the basket at a comfortable clip. And while he might not possess the striking athleticism he once had, LBJ is still quick and explosive enough to make defenses fear his rim attacks.

The last time James went below 25 ppg for a season was in his rookie season, in which he averaged 20.9 points. That is absurd to think about.

Shaq lauded young LeBron’s leadership

One of James’s most glamorous attributes—in addition to his sheer dominance—was his ability to lead as a youngster. Bron was never confrontational, just assertive. He was never loud, screaming, or obnoxious, just level-headed and encouraging. As the elder statesman in the locker room with a young James, Shaquille O’Neal remembered being in awe of James’ poise.

“When I played with LeBron, he was the greatest young leader I’ve seen,” O’Neal told Redick. “[…] When I got there, he just ran it so perfectly. The way he treated the guys. The way he treated the organization. The way he was coached. The way he looked after guys – I didn’t even have to do nothing.”

Whether through mentorship, inviting teammates to his birthday parties, or hosting a team dinner, James always incorporated the entire team. Despite always being the hands-down best player on his team, LeBro never carried himself with a ‘bossy’ attitude, and his teammates appreciated that the most about him.

Unprecedented longevity

Turning 40 in the upcoming season, James is still a top player in the NBA, entering his 22nd season. LeBron finished the season among the most efficient scorers in the paint. From the perimeter, he shot a career-high 41.0% on a high volume of shot attempts.

Another breathtaking stat is that James has now played against 35% of all the players who have ever been in the NBA. Nothing will if that doesn’t show how much he has meant to the Association over the past two decades.