17 January 2023 , 12:39
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Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James has told fellow sporting icon Tom Brady to "follow his heart" when making a decision about retirement.
They may never cross paths in a competitive sense, but there's an immense amount of respect between James and Brady, two greats of the sporting world. James learned after the Lakers had beaten the Houston Rockets that Brady's 23rd NFL season had come to an end, and he was asked about his future.
Brady has already retired once before reversing his decision, and there's speculation he could exit the NFL once more. But James isn't concerned, and thinks Brady has to do what's best for him.
James has vowed to support whatever Brady decides to do, as the quarterback is faced with a huge career decision. Brady not only has to decide if he will return next season, but he has to consider where he wishes to play too.
He will become a free agent now that his deal with the Buccaneers has expired, and the 45-year-old will either re-sign, move elsewhere, or call time all together. James was asked about what Brady might do after the Lakers beat the Rockets 140-132 on Monday night, but offered a very philosophical response.
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"Listen man, follow your heart," said the Lakers front man when speaking on NBA TV. "Follow your heart and your gut is going to tell you what to do.
"That man's been doing it for 20-plus years at such a high level. As always, my best wishes. He's not only my favourite quarterback but also a really good, dear friend to me.
Tom Brady has completed his 23rd NFL season"So whatever he decides to do [I support him]. I love seeing him on the field, it gives me inspiration to keep going at my age, so we'll see what happens."
James will soon be facing a similar situation himself in the near future, although it's not as immediate at Brady's. James is now 38, and although he is still at the very top of his game, it's a decision that won't be far off.
The Lakers star would love to win another NBA title, but it doesn't look likely with the way they're currently playing. And after agreeing an extension, he can't trade to another team yet either, so is forced to stick it out.
If things don't improve, James may have to follow his heart when a potential trade situation arises. However, until then he's left battling it out as a Laker.