Entering his 17th season, LeBron James continues to defy Father Time even in the wake of his first significant injury last season. His play has maintained at a level of one of the best players in the game despite being 34 years old, which is a commitment to his work ethic and the dedication to taking care of his body.
That commitment served as inspiration and a guiding light for the Lakers youngsters last season. In a radio interview with radio host Big Boy, Ball talked about James’ work ethic and what it was like playing with his favorite player.
“It was dope. I mean, he was my favorite player growing up so, it was a little different for me.”
“Man, just his work ethic. I mean, year 16, the way he was taking care of his body was crazy. Like, I see why he’s been in the league for so long and still playing at a high level.”
Ball pointed out multiple times in the buildup to last season that James was his favorite player growing up. The fact, though, that Ball grew up watching James and then was able to play with him is another testament to James’ work ethic.
The interesting part moving forward will be whether seeing James’ dedication to his craft first hand has any sort of lasting impact on Ball and fellow former Lakers Brandon Ingram and Josh Hart as they move onto a new franchise.
