Brigit Adongo
American basketball legend, LeBron James is more relaxed and energized than last season as he eyes a fifth NBA title and his second with Lakers.
Having aided his team to a joint-record 17th NBA title in 2020, LeBron is far from done as he adequately prepares for another championship this season, starting this Sunday.
Arguably one of the best NBA players of all time, James leads fellow NBA players in daily gym practices and training camp practices, not hiding their progress or his restored energy as he shares them with the world on social media.
According to him, last year was hard and mentally challenging due to the Covid-19 effects, among other commitments. “Just, you know, last year after coming off the bubble, it literally took everything away from you… Guys just didn’t have an opportunity to get a mental break,” he said.
LeBron has had a busy schedule with his movie in production, family and what have you, but he still finds more than enough time to train and relax ahead of another season.
This time, though, things are easier than last season as the world tries to minimize the Covid-19 effect by lifting most rules.
He is someone to look up to, and he justifies that when he sets an example by being attentive to understanding coaches’ instructions and executing them. “He sets a great tone for attentiveness, hanging on every word….making sure he’s understanding it, executing it at the right level…I think that sets a tone for the rest of the guys,” his coach, Frank Nogel, acknowledged James’ contribution to the team.
From the coaches’ further words, the 36-year old is an essential part of their (Lakers) side as his basketball experience proves vital when they want to perfectly implement something.
Furthermore, fellow players admit James’ importance and believe they can stay on top with him around. “That’s why certain teams…well, every team that he’s played on has been to the top of the top,” said Rajon Rondo about James, highlighting that other players are encouraged to imitate anything initiated by such a person (James).
With LeBron’s readiness and new signee, Russell Westbrook’s speed, the Lakers should have a fantastic season ahead.
