LeBron James and Jeanie Buss’ drama took center stage in the NBA world recently when it was reportedly revealed that the two had initial tensions. Now, the Los Angeles Lakers’ governor has come out publicly to talk about internal team decisions and James’ future with the franchise.
In an interview with CNBC, Buss detailed the front office’s call about King James and his decision on playing with the squad. She said:
“Never say never, but you know, he certainly hasn’t given an indication. He’s earned the right to decide how his career will go, and you know, he continues to impress.”
Buss’s praise for James seemed to point to a healthy relationship between the two after widespread social media rumors about their internal tussle. She was also under scrutiny for facilitating the Lakers’ sale last year to billionaire Mark Walter after the Buss family managed the franchise for years.
Jeanie Buss was heavily criticized by fans and analysts for selling the majority shares and sidelining several members of the reputable family. Buss, who remains the sole member of the family with the franchise, also opened up about the team’s decision for the future.
Jeanie Buss says the Lakers look to build around Luka Doncic instead of LeBron James
Jeanie Buss openly discussed the LA Lakers’ strategy for the future and how the team has decided to build around the superstar Luka Doncic. The Slovenian guard was acquired by the team in a high-profile trade that sent Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Doncic.
In the aforementioned interview, talking about Doncic’s role in the squad, Buss said:
“The partnership will give us the stability to continue to move forward as we build towards a team around Dončić. We couldn’t be more proud that he is a Laker. He is a young all-star that the fans love to see.”
Even though LeBron James has been synonymous with the Lakers franchise for some time now, his retirement could come any time. Doncic, on the other hand, is a perennial MVP candidate and a volume scorer who has to be the team’s best bet.
Only time will tell what will happen to James after the 2025-26 season, as he is already under his player option with the Lakers. However, Buss’s statement about him would surely spark a lot of talk on social media.
READ MORE: When is LeBron James Retiring? Lakers All-Star Drops Major Hint on Ending Career Soon
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!
