The NBA’s all-time leading scorer and biggest star since Michael Jordan is openly musing about retirement — a move that would render a sizable economic blow across multiple revenue lines. 

After Lebron James’ Los Angeles Lakers were swept by the Denver Nuggets in the Western Conference Finals, the 38-year-old James said, “personally, going forward with the game of basketball, I’ve got a lot to think about.” 

Despite his advancing age and increasing injury concerns — not to mention the Lakers’ mere two playoff series wins since the team’s 2020 title — the superstar remains a massive force in league business. 

In addition to the Lakers ranking among league leaders in home and away attendance and local television ratings, James boasts a Twitter following of nearly 53 million, the most of any American athlete. He also led all NBA players again this year in All-Star Game fan voting and topped the league’s jersey sales for the second half of the 2022-23 season.

Blowing Off Steam?

There are multiple reasons why James would not retire. 

James remains under contract with the Lakers for the 2023-24 season at $46.9 million and has a player option for the following year at $50.7 million. He has also openly spoken of his desire to ultimately play with his son, Bronny James, who has committed to playing at USC next season.

The Lakers are also bidding to host the 2025 All-Star Game at their Crypto.com Arena.

The Oakland A’s reportedly made major steps toward a stadium funding deal in Las Vegas, but appear to be accepting less public money than they initially sought.

The team and key state stakeholders have agreed to a legislative package expected to be introduced this week, according to the Nevada Independent. The state would offer less than the $195 million maximum it was reportedly willing to contribute, while Clark County would provide less than the $200 million in bonds the team had sought from it.

The agreement was reached through conversations between the team, Gov. Joe Lombardo’s office, the state treasurer, and representatives from state lawmakers and the county. 

A presentation to the full Nevada legislature is anticipated this week. Lawmakers have until June 5 to approve a deal before the legislative session ends, but the governor could call a special session to continue negotiations past that date.

Legislators set a limit of $175 million in state funds, per Fox5 Las Vegas. County officials had expressed concerns that property taxes could rise if the A’s failed to meet revenue expectations related to a bond deal.

The A’s are expected to ask for an exemption to the 9% live entertainment tax on tickets to shows and sporting events. Both the Las Vegas Raiders and Golden Knights secured an exemption from the tax.

Some NFL fans may be doubling as travel consultants this fall after the league approved flex scheduling for “Thursday Night Football.”

At this week’s meetings, owners greenlit a trial plan allowing Thursday games from Week 13 on to be flexed to Sunday and vice versa with 28 days notice. Fans who purchase tickets and make travel arrangements could be forced to change their plans a month in advance.

The measure, which reportedly passed on a 24-8 vote despite opposition from some owners, is largely being touted as a win for Amazon, which received a more attractive Thursday night schedule this coming season in addition to the first-ever NFL game on Black Friday.

Amazon hasn’t not yet publicly commented on the decision, but one top executive at another NFL media partner isn’t sure the flexing parameters will be of much use to the streamer, given the four weeks’ notice required.

“If you can tell after Week 10 which games are going to be dogs in Week 15, more power to you,” Fox Sports Exec VP, Head of Strategy and Analytics Mike Mulvihill tweeted. “Better yet, send me your résumé.”

International Delight

The NFL also beefed up its international marketing rights at the owners meetings, with new additions including rights for the Saints in France, Steelers and Jaguars in Ireland and North Ireland, and the Falcons in Germany. 

Twenty-one clubs will now participate in the program in 2023 across 14 international markets, up from 19 participating clubs across 10 markets last year.