Mark Cuban has asked LeBron James to consider retirement after 22 seasons in the NBA. The Dallas Mavericks‘ minority owner joked that LeBron is just playing at too high a level to keep going.
Cuban was approached by TMZ in New York City this week, and he didn’t hesitate to share his thoughts on the Lakers superstar’s future. In his usual candid style, he playfully implied that it might be best for James to step away from the game.
But Cuban‘s comments were all in good fun. He confessed that his remarks were partly self-serving-after all, as long as LeBron continues to dominate, teams like Cuban’s Mavericks have a tougher road ahead.
“Yes, LeBron,” Cuban said. “It’s time for you to quit. I’m tired of you!!
“Only ’cause he’s still so good. He’s on the Lakers, they’re our rivals. So, it’s time to retire, LeBron.”
Playing with his son
LeBron‘s presence on the court remains a significant challenge for any opponent, including Dallas.
He also shared his thoughts on LeBron’s son, Bronny, who’s entering his first NBA season. Cuban believes the younger James is ready to step up, and despite the immense spotlight on him, having LeBron by his side could actually be a great advantage.
In Cuban‘s view, the father-son pairing might bring more positives than pressure as Bronny begins his professional journey.
A new business venture?
Following the sale of his majority stake in the Mavericks, Cuban indicated he’d be willing to team up with Shaquille O’Neal and James on the venture, supported by his business partners.
“I’d have to make it okay with my current partners, but, yeah, if my kids were like, ‘All right, we’re set. We don’t… want whatever.’ And it was Shaq. F**k Yeah. I would look at making a comeback. So, you know, we get me, you, LeBron, we might have something there,” Cuban said.