Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James is several days past turning 38 years of age, but his play on the court hasn’t reflected that.
After putting up 47 points, 10 rebounds and nine assists on his birthday, which was on Dec. 30, he posted 43 points, 11 boards and six assists as the Lakers defeated the Charlotte Hornets, 121-115, to claim their third win in their last four games.
Although he’s been playing heavy minutes lately (he’s actually tied for 12th in minutes per game), he seems to be showing no ill effects of that elevated workload.
James explained the biggest keys to keeping himself in prime shape while resembling a player who is as much as 10 years younger.
Via Lakers Daily:
“At 18 and 20, you’re just doing it off straight-up energy and straight skill,” he said when comparing his younger self to now. “… But at 38 for me, it’s mental. How much rest I can get from day to day, get my optimal sleep, get the right food in me, treat my body right.”
Science has clearly shown that getting at least eight hours of sleep each night and having a healthy diet can slow the aging process while keeping people energetic and spry. The four-time MVP reportedly invests at least $1 million a year to keep his body right season after season.
At this point, only perhaps Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has shown equal or greater longevity among basketball players.
