LeBron not giving up: "In Paris, I saw – I still have plenty of fuel in the tank"

Everything is set for a show in Los Angeles. The Lakers do what LeBron James says, and that's been clear for a while. The "Showtime" team drafted Bronny James, LeBron’s son, and then brought in JJ Redick, a former NBA star, as head coach. Redick had recorded a podcast with The King during the second part of last season.

It seems that basketball might not be LeBron's top priority, given that two summers ago he spent time filming "Space Jam 2." That said, it's also true that James has won everything there is to win in his career so far. It’s understandable that he would want to enjoy himself, to play without pressure, but that’s nearly impossible in a franchise as big as the Lakers. However, since 2020 (when he won the NBA championship with the Lakers), LeBron has been saying that he wants to lead the team to another ring, and believes the team is more than ready for it, although the results haven’t backed up his words.

It was much the same on this year's media day, where James repeated messages from previous seasons.

"I feel really good, I had a great summer," which is true, considering LeBron led the USA to a gold medal at the Olympic Games in Paris, and he was also the tournament’s MVP.

"It’s a great feeling to play competitive games at such a high level, especially at my age. Those games in Paris give me the right to say, 'I still have fuel in the tank.' And I can be part of a championship team, whether it’s chasing an NBA ring or a gold medal, I can contribute," said James.

It’s certainly not easy for LeBron, as people expect him to carry the team on his shoulders even at 39 years old, but that doesn’t worry him.

"I feel good physically, and mentally too. I’m fresh, and I’m looking forward to the training sessions we have ahead. I’m not thinking too much about the future; I’m living in the moment. Especially because Bronny is here. I’m enjoying it. I have the chance to work with my son every day and watch him progress day by day," said James.

LeBron was caught several times using his phone to capture Bronny's first moments in a Lakers jersey, and the younger James spoke about it as well.

"It’s a crazy feeling, when I see my dad following me around and taking pictures, I ask myself what’s going on. I’m very grateful for the opportunity I’ve been given," said Bronny.

The new season for the Lakers starts on October 22, when the Purple-and-Gold will face Minnesota, a team that made major roster changes and reached the Western Conference Finals last year. They’ll definitely be looking to go even further this season.