NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal has finally shared his thoughts on why LeBron James continues to dominate the league at 40 years old. During a recent episode of The Big Podcast with Shaq, O’Neal broke down the key factors behind James’ seemingly ageless performance and sustained excellence in his 21st NBA season.
According to Shaq, LeBron’s longevity comes down to a combination of elite-level conditioning, an unmatched basketball IQ, and an intense commitment to recovery and self-care.
> “LeBron spends over a million dollars a year just on his body, and you see the results,” Shaq said. “He’s not just staying in shape—he’s evolving his game every year to stay ahead of the competition.”
A Masterclass in Adaptation
O’Neal pointed out that while many stars decline in their later years, James has continued to adjust his playing style to remain effective. Early in his career, James relied heavily on athleticism and explosiveness. In recent seasons, however, he has refined his shooting, passing, and decision-making to extend his dominance.
> “When I was in my late 30s, my body started breaking down. But LeBron? He’s still putting up MVP-level numbers,” Shaq added.
The Mental Edge
Beyond physical conditioning, O’Neal credited LeBron’s “mental approach” as a key reason for his longevity. James is known for his meticulous attention to detail, extensive film study, and leadership both on and off the court.
> “The guy is a genius when it comes to basketball,” Shaq continued. “He knows every play before it happens, and that gives him an advantage even against younger, faster players.”
Chasing Greatness
With James continuing to put up stellar numbers for the Los Angeles Lakers, Shaq believes he could realistically play into his mid-40s if he chooses.
> “I don’t see him stopping anytime soon,” O’Neal concluded. “He’s redefining what’s possible for an NBA player, and we’re all just witnessing history.”
As James continues his quest for more championships and milestones, Shaq’s comments only reinforce what basketball fans already know—LeBron’s dominance is no accident, and he’s far from finished.
