'It's Called Being Old'; LeBron James Reveals The Source Of His Latest Injury

LeBron James just began his record 23rd NBA season in 2025–26, and after starting the year on the sidelines, he recently made his return for the Los Angeles Lakers. However, after just a few games, he missed their game against the New Orleans Pelicans, suffering an ankle injury that he has swiftly recovered from.

Unfortunately, even in the shape he has been in throughout his career, injuries are unavoidable; the more wear and tear there is on the body, and at 41 years of age, this could become more and more common. Now, James has addressed that injury, and while joking with reporters, he blamed the injury on his age.

“It’s called old… You just wake up with sh*t that you didn’t have the night before.”

This should come as no surprise to anyone, as James has appeared in 1,567 regular-season games as well as 292 Playoff games (an all-time record for appearances in NBA playoff games). However, even being beyond 40, James can still be very productive when he's healthy, as he is averaging a ridiculous 25 points, nine rebounds, and six assists in the five games he has played for the Lakers this season.

Ultimately, it's unclear whether or not the 2025–26 NBA season will be James's last in the league, but given that he's appeared in 23 seasons now, no one would blame him for hanging it up, and moving forward, those injuries may play a crucial role in his ultimate decision on his future.