LeBron James (Photo by ARIS MESSINIS/AFP via Getty Images)
For most of his career, LeBron James participated in the largest basketball contests available to players. James has not even been near the NBA Finals over the past four seasons, despite having made 10 Finals in 12 seasons.

James is entirely using the significant events that await Team USA at the 2024 Olympics, speaking openly about his advanced age and limited playing time.

LeBron James shared his thoughts after the game, “I’m 39 years old, it’s my 22nd season. I don’t know how many opportunities and moments I’m going to get like to be able to compete for something big and playing big games. And tonight was a big game.”

LeBron James was the second-best player on Team USA during their tremendous Olympic comeback victory over Serbia. His 16 points, 12 rebounds, and 12 assists tonight made him the only player in Olympic history to record more than one triple-double.

LeBron was the ideal complement to Stephen Curry, another seasoned player on this team who put on one of the best offensive performances of anyone wearing a Team USA jersey, scoring 36 points. But what’s next for James, who is 39 years old? Fans want him to play more, and the end of his legacy seems near.

Can LeBron James Deliver More Iconic Performances This Season?

LeBron James’ next significant test will come in the gold medal game, where he will try to lead the squad to victory over France and bring home the nation’s fifth gold medal in basketball in a row. James must finish it by preparing for another “big moment” because he is currently the front-runner to earn tournament MVP. However, making it to the Final was the very minimum for them.

The more critical query should be whether LeBron will get another chance to play significant basketball with the Lakers. James had an incredible NBA season the previous year. This isn’t typical, but the Lakers’ inaction in strengthening their roster has hindered the team’s progress.

LeBron James’ relationship with Anthony Davis has grown more substantial due to Davis’ incredible play for the Lakers and Team USA. James and Davis should be inspired to repeat that experience by winning something with the Lakers coming into training camp after experiencing another taste of greatness as colleagues on the national team.

James is demonstrating on Team USA that he can have more significant moments. Perhaps a coach like JJ Redick can make enough of an impact to help them go past the crowded West division the following year. LeBron James cannot play pointless basketball for the Lakers in Year 22.