LeBron James has been named TIME100 Athlete of the Century, with TIME magazine recognising the NBA superstar’s influence beyond basketball and highlighting his impact on business, media and public life.
The honour was announced as part of TIME’s list celebrating the most influential figures in sport. According to the publication, James has redefined the role of the modern athlete through his achievements on the court, entrepreneurial ventures and willingness to engage in public issues during a career spanning more than two decades.
At 41, James remains one of basketball’s biggest stars and continues to perform at an elite level for the Los Angeles Lakers. Already the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, he is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the game.
In an interview with TIME, James said his eventual retirement would be determined by whether he still enjoys the demands required to compete at the highest level.
“It’s up to the mind. Where the mind goes, the body will lay. When I’m not in love with getting to the arenas on game days five hours before to start my preparation, if I’m out of love with getting to practice 2½ hours beforehand, then I know I’ll be done.”
TIME also highlighted James’ role in athlete empowerment, noting that he has taken greater control of his career, built successful businesses outside basketball and established platforms that allow athletes to tell their own stories.
The magazine pointed to his investments, media ventures and community initiatives in his hometown of Akron, Ohio, in addition to his accomplishments on the court.
Todd Boyd, a professor at the University of Southern California, underscored James’ significance in American society.
“I don’t think it’s a stretch at all to say LeBron is one of the most important athletes in American history, and one of the most important Americans of the 21st century,” Boyd told TIME.
James, however, said he remains focused on his own path rather than comparisons with other sporting greats.
“My journey is my journey. I do what I do. I know what I’ve brought to the table. From a basketball standpoint, an inspiring standpoint, an influential standpoint, I know I can walk in any room.”
While debates over basketball’s greatest player continue, the four-time NBA champion expressed unwavering confidence in his achievements.
“I’m not taking nobody over me. There’s no question,” he said.
Despite his longevity and remarkable success, James indicated that family would take on a greater role whenever he decides to retire, saying he looks forward to spending more time with his wife and children after years of dedication to basketball.
