LeBron James’ retirement has become the NBA’s favorite guessing game—but the decision goes far beyond the hardwood. While many assume it hinges on whether he still has gas left in the tank, the truth is more personal. It’s about family. And not just Bronny. With two sons and a legacy still unfolding, LeBron is weighing far more than playoff heartbreak. Though he and Bronny made history as the NBA’s first father-son teammates, their time on the court together has felt more symbolic than substantial. Now, in a bid to shift that reality, Bronny James is making a bold move of his own—and it could change everything.

Bronny James just revealed that he will play in the NBA Summer League. ESPN insider David McMenamin broke this news. Also called the Las Vegas Summer League, it’s an excellent way for Bronny to develop his game. And over the years, several talented point guards have all won the Summer League MVP. Some of these names include Damian Lillard, Lonzo Ball, and Davion Mitchell. And Bronny can be mentioned in the same breath as these guys. And, according to the rumblings McMenamin has heard, LeBron may be looking to rectify this as well, while vying for another championship.

“He wants another championship. Like, he knows it’s within his grasp. He is playing for the ability to be in the NBA, not with just Bronny James as his teammate, but Bronny James, a contributor on a winning NBA team. And so he’s gonna be along for that part of the process as well,” he revealed about LeBron’s motivation.

McMenamin also revealed something Bronny had shared with him about his favorite memories from his debut campaign. “I talked to Bronnie about his favorite memories from the year, and he mentioned just the surreal idea of going to work with his dad. And he said, ‘I look forward to that for years to come.’ So, it could not just be a swamp song for LeBron James next year, but a continuation,” said David on the Dan Patrick Show.

Bronny sharpening his skills in the Summer League could be a key factor in convincing LeBron to extend his legendary career. But make no mistake—this decision isn’t solely about Bronny. There’s a deeper family angle at play here. After all, LeBron has two sons chasing basketball dreams, and the King may be thinking bigger than just a one-year father-son moment.

Not Bronny James, here’s who Shams Charania thinks will influence LeBron’s retirement decision

Well, let’s get to it. ESPN insider Shams Charania thinks LeBron James will not retire after getting bounced by the T-Wolves yesterday. “My sense, my understanding is he will play at least another NBA season… It’ll be year 23 that would set a league record. Year 23 for number 23,” said Shams.

But that’s not even why Shams believes LeBron will stick around. No, there’s another reason for LeBron James to stick around in the league for another season at least, maybe more. And that reason is Bryce James, his youngest son. “The other thing is Bryce James, his son- does that factor play into it at all? His son is going to be potentially draft-eligible in 2026, next year. So if he feels at some point next year, Bryce James might be an NBA player, might be a draft-eligible player. Does he extend that window? I think that’s the only potential caveat that you think of out there that could keep LeBron James even longer than at least one more year,” said Charania.

You see, Bryce James has officially committed to the Arizona Wildcats, locking in at least one more year before he’s NBA Draft-eligible. That timeline could have a ripple effect on his father’s future. According to veteran journalist Rachel Nichols, even Savannah James feels LeBron should “play through when Bryce is in the league.” That would mean staying until at least the 2026–27 season—just as Shams Charania previously hinted.

So while Bronny James’ NBA journey has long been considered a key factor in LeBron’s next steps, it’s clear Bryce—and Savannah—are part of the equation too. And knowing LeBron’s deep commitment to family, it wouldn’t be surprising if he finds a way to balance legacy, longevity, and loyalty at once.