LeBron James’ shocking revelation about his career during the 2011 NBA lockout

LeBron James is renowned for his unmatched dominance on the basketball court, but in a recent appearance on the “New Heights with Jason and Travis Kelce” podcast, he revealed something unexpected: during the 2011 NBA lockout, he seriously contemplated stepping away from basketball and trying his hand at professional football.

During this period of uncertainty, when the NBA season was suspended and players were in limbo, James found himself reflecting on his future. “I didn’t know when we were going to make the deal with the owners and get our league back going… So, I actually thought about it a little bit back then. I was still young enough to get out there with y’all. That’s the only time I’ve seriously considered it,” James confessed. Though he emphasized that it was a fleeting thought, it highlighted a moment in his life when basketball wasn’t the only sport on his mind.

LeBron’s Athletic Background and Football Dreams

For many, this revelation may not be all that surprising, considering LeBron’s multi-sport athlete background. Before he became a global basketball icon, LeBron was also an exceptional football player at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School in Akron, Ohio. His football talent was so impressive that he was recruited by Ohio State football coach Jim Tressel, who envisioned him playing two sports at the collegiate level—a rarity in today’s world of highly specialized athletes.

LeBron reflects on how his life might have been different: “I definitely would’ve thought about that at the time… Sian Cotton went off to Ohio State on a full ride and played football there, so that would’ve been super dope. I could’ve roomed with him, played football during the fall, and basketball during the winter and spring. That would’ve been dope.”

However, as we know, LeBron chose to forgo college altogether, entering the 2003 NBA Draft, where he was selected first overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers. His decision to pursue basketball eventually paid off, leading to a legendary career. But even now, at 40 years old, James admits that he still wonders “what could have been.”

The Dream That Never Was

Despite the “what ifs,” LeBron has no regrets about his decision. He says that while he occasionally dreams about playing football, it’s never quite the reality he envisioned. “In my dream, the ball is never kicked off… It’s me in the warmups; it’s me coming out, running my routes, and right when the game starts, I f**king wake up or some sh*t. That lets me know I’m not supposed to be out there.”

This dream, as humorous as it may sound, is a reminder that even the most driven athletes sometimes entertain thoughts about different paths—paths they never took but that continue to intrigue them.

LeBron’s NFL Comparisons and His Potential on the Field

When the Kelce brothers pressed James about which NFL players he would compare himself to, LeBron didn’t hesitate. He confidently described himself as a blend of Rob Gronkowski, a four-time Super Bowl champion and future Hall of Famer, and Randy Moss, a legendary wide receiver known for his incredible athleticism. LeBron also saw similarities between himself and Calvin Johnson, another Hall of Famer recognized for his imposing size and extraordinary talent.

But the comparisons didn’t end there. James also mentioned Tony Gonzalez, a former All-Pro tight end with a basketball background—much like LeBron himself.

When discussing the possibility of transitioning from basketball to football, LeBron shared his perspective on why basketball players might be better suited for the switch. “If an NBA guy decides to go play in the NFL, yes, it’s going to take a transition period,” James said. “But I want to say that I think it’s easier for a basketball player to try the NFL over an NFL player trying to get in the NBA. And I know we’ve got some great athletes. For me, it would’ve been like getting used to getting hit again. But football going to basketball? It’s much more coordination, running, and jumping, consistent.”

LeBron’s belief in the similarities between the two sports isn’t far-fetched. Both require exceptional coordination, athleticism, and physicality, traits that have allowed him to excel in basketball for over two decades.

The Right Call: LeBron’s Legacy

As LeBron continues to shine on the basketball court, it’s clear he made the right decision by committing to basketball. His success on and off the court, including four NBA championships and numerous accolades, has cemented his legacy as one of the greatest basketball players of all time. While he may never have fully embraced a career in football, his versatility as an athlete only adds to his legendary status.

Even though his dreams of playing professional football may remain just that—dreams—LeBron’s journey in the NBA has redefined what it means to be an elite athlete. Had he chosen a different path, we might have been discussing him as a two-sport legend. For now, basketball fans can be grateful that LeBron James chose the hardwood, where he continues to dominate and inspire future generations.