Smoking cigars, testing out his golf swing, and even grooving to Indian music, LeBron James has been enjoying life this summer. No one in the NBA deserves a break more than him—the oldest active player with more miles than anyone else. But with year 23 right around the corner, the four-time champ realized it was time to return to the lab. Just like that, he was back in Los Angeles, doing what he does best: hoop!

Putting an end to his vacation, the Lakers star recently had an intense workout session with renowned NBA trainer Chris Johnson. The JUSHOOP founder shared glimpses of it on Instagram with an inspiring message, “Loading 🔋🔐 Year 23 @kingjames 👑 ‘No clock on the grind when you’re built for forever.’”

Defying Father Time yet again, the video showed a 40-year-old LeBron throwing down alley-oops, dunking, and of course, working on his shots. Looks like the man is ready to take over the league next year. Despite being the oldest active player, he has shown no signs of slowing down. Last season, Bron played seventy games, averaging 24.4 points and over eight assists. That’s better than most players in their prime.

Of course, LeBron being back in LA working on his craft is a great sign for the Lakers. Ever since he opted into his $52.6 million player option instead of inking a new extension, there has been growing speculation of a potential trade. Rich Paul’s official statement only fuelled that buzz: “LeBron wants to compete for a championship… We do want to evaluate what’s best for LeBron at this stage in his life and career.” There are also reports of four teams contacting the agent to inquire about James’ availability.

Concerns grew further when Nikola Jokic’s agent, Miško Ražnatović, recently posted vacation pictures with LeBron and Maverick Carter. Is Miško recruiting Bron? Is LeBron joining the Nuggets? Laker Nation’s minds began spiraling, imagining all potential scenarios. But James returning to the gym, gearing up for year 23, has given the fans hope amid his uncertain future.

NBA world makes unique comparison as LeBron James’ transformation leaves them in awe

Soon after Chris posted the workout video with Bron, the hoop community went into a frenzy. Comments like “Year 23 🔥 GREATEST OF ALL TIME!!!” and “My GOAT 🐐 he’s back” began flooding in. One impressed fan even compared the veteran superstar to a Gen 3 Toyota 4Runner, saying, “them thangs last forever.” Well, James is truly the epitome of longevity, as no athlete in any sport has been this dominant for this long. And he is likely to do the same next season.

Apart from his dedication to the craft, fans also highlighted the science behind LeBron’s workout sessions: “He does the most simplistic drills but he reps them out so much and so consistently that once he gets on the court it’s so easy for him… pure greatness.” No flashy moves, no jelly layups, as LeBron grows older, his workouts are more methodical and focused. He only does what he would do in an actual game, and that precision pays dividends once the ball tips off.

Meanwhile, many netizens also noticed a transformation in James’s physique. “Bron slimmed down?” One fan questioned, pointing out that James looked a lot leaner than last season. Maybe the four-time champ has shed some weight to better maneuver his 6’9 frame on the court.

In awe of his physique and athleticism at age 40, one fan even claimed, “he looks younger than Bronny.” Although it sounds like an exaggeration, it really isn’t when you realize how much better LeBron still is than his younger NBA peers. Truly one of a kind. Don’t you think?