Bringing back joy to the Lakers fans, LeBron James is getting a step closer to making his 2025 to 2026 season debut. The basketball legend has been dealing with sciatica, a lower back nerve issue. While he is doing all the work to get back on the court, the recovery journey seems to be far from over. The star player recently revealed in an interview that he is waiting for his lungs, which currently look like a “newborn’s,” to resemble those of a “grown man.”
LeBron James talks about his lungs’ state
LeBron James is on his journey to reclaim his fitness to make his much-awaited return with the Los Angeles Lakers. As part of his rehabilitation, James was assigned to the Lakers’ G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers. This was a crucial step in his recovery as James is preparing to get back into the game with some five-on-five practices.
He is now back with the Lakers, practicing with the team, and taking things day by day. However, when asked by reporters if he will be seen playing for the Lakers, James got real about his progress. James revealed that his conditioning is not quite there yet.
“Obviously, my lungs feel like a newborn baby. That’s the most important thing. I’ve gotta get my lungs back up to a grown man,” James said while speaking with ESPN’s Dave McMenamin.
Much to the happiness of his fans, LeBron James seems to be sprinting toward recovery. As of Monday morning, he has been upgraded to questionable for Tuesday’s game against the Utah Jazz. This means that James might make his debut soon, hopefully at Tuesday’s game. If not, there is still hope to catch him play on Sunday, November 23, when the Lakers head to Utah for another match against the Jazz.
Fans took to social media to show their love and appreciation for the basketball legend. “40 years old, missed the first 14 games, and still the whole arena will lose its mind when he checks in. It’s just nice to see him back on the court.” One fan wrote on X, “welcome back my glorious king,” another commented.
LeBron James’s return will make him the first player in NBA history to play in 23 consecutive seasons.
Originally reported by Sibanee Gogoi on Mandatory.
