NBA legend claims LeBron James likely to become Tom Brady of basketball: “He’s stronger than he’s ever been”

LeBron James’ is still one of the best players in the league right now owing to his constant display of shooting prowess and physicality on the court even at 38. Since being dubbed ‘The Chosen One’ in 2003 to winning his fourth Championship ring, LeBron has dominated the league while amassing numerous achievements and accolades.

In recognition of LeBron James’ commitment to continue playing the game and still dominating, the former NBA legend of the Pistons John Salley has predicted King James to become the Tom Brady of basketball.

John Salley talks on LeBron James durability

NBA Legend and former player for the Detroit Pistons John Salley recently predicted 38-year-old LeBron James to emulate the longevity of NFL legend Tom Brady while speaking on the Undisputed Show. Salley believes that LeBron still has enough energy left to play even until the age of 45 years.

Detroit Piston legend John Salley claims LeBron James likely to become Tom Brady of basketball and might play up to 45 years
LeBron James Via Getty

“This kid was designed to play basketball. I think he can play as long as Tom Brady, until he is 45.”

John Salley, whose words were full of praises for the King, stated that LeBron was designed to play basketball. Salley admired the fact that LeBron takes care of his body, by making it strong to achieve durability.

The Pistons legend also admired LeBron’s top intelligence while on the court, which gives him an edge. While predicting LeBron James to emulate Tom Brady’s longevity and play until 45 years, Salley stated that LeBron looks stronger than he has ever been, and even better than when he was 28 years old.

Meanwhile, Tom Brady, having spent 23 seasons in the NFL, played for the New England Patriots (2000-2019) and Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2020-2022), winning 7 Super Bowl rings in the process. LeBron James, largely known for his undying commitment, has likewise achieved a lot in the NBA, which could have prompted John Salley’s prediction.

LeBron James performances in NBA this season

LeBron James, upon entering his 21st season in the league, has continued to show dominance and has been impressive on the court. LeBron James, whose on-court minutes per game is staggering at an average of 34 minutes, is racking 25.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, 6.5 assists, and 56.3% FG per game this season.

Detroit Piston legend John Salley claims LeBron James likely to become Tom Brady of basketball and might play up to 45 years
LeBron James Via Getty

So far in the season, LeBron has continued to etch his name in the records book. LeBron James recently became the first player to attain 39,000 career points, after scoring points in just 5 minutes of the Lakers’ 131-99 win over the Utah Jazz.

King James has also surpassed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s record for most minutes in the league breaking his highest of 66,298 minutes in an unfortunate loss of 94-138 to the Philadelphia 76ers. LeBron James, showing no sign of slowing down his on-court dazzle, might just realize John Salley’s predictions.

If LeBron plays until 45 years old, what more records can he surpass or establish? Share your thoughts now in the comment segment.

Shariare Hasib

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Shariare Hasib is an NBA Editor at SportsKnot. With a master's degree in journalism from a prestigious university, Shariare started writing about the sport during his undergraduate years. Since then, he has been fascinated by LeBron James' lasting impact as well as Stephen Curry's incredible consistency. He specializes in live basketball coverage. Apart from reporting on trade speculations and match updates during off-season activities, Shariare frequently interacts with fan communities to stay abreast of the constantly evolving NBA scene.

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