LeBron James has made it clear that his future ambitions include owning an NBA franchise, with a specific interest in bringing a team to Las Vegas. During a 2022 NBA preseason press conference in Abu Dhabi, the LA Lakers superstar expressed his desire to NBA commissioner Adam Silver to establish a team in Vegas. Former NBA All-Star Kenyon Martin recently shared his confidence in LeBron’s potential to thrive as a team owner.
Speaking on Gil’s Arena, Martin, a 2004 NBA All-Star, highlighted LeBron’s strategic decision-making as a player, which he believes would translate seamlessly into the role of an NBA team owner. Martin emphasized that James has an in-depth understanding of what it takes to build a winning team and would excel in selecting talent and assembling rosters.
“I genuinely believe LeBron would be successful as an owner because he knows the formula for success,” said Martin. “He understands what it takes to build a winning team, and as an owner, he’ll have the opportunity to handpick the right pieces to create a championship-caliber organization.”
Martin also touched on the rumors surrounding LeBron’s influence in team decisions throughout his career, where he’s earned the nickname “LeGM” due to his perceived involvement in player signings and trades. While those claims remain speculative, Martin pointed out that in an ownership role, LeBron would have the full authority to make key decisions. This control, Martin believes, will allow him to further showcase his basketball acumen.
“People talk about LeBron having control in his teams’ decision-making, but we don’t know if that’s true or not. As an owner, though, every major decision will go through him, and that gives him the power to shape his team exactly as he envisions,” Martin added.
Martin also mentioned that James’ trusted associates, Maverick Carter and Rich Paul, would likely play integral roles in his future team’s front office. With Rich Paul already one of the most influential agents in the NBA and well-versed in scouting talent, Martin suggested that Paul could easily transition to a General Manager role, helping to build a successful organization alongside LeBron.
“Mav[Carter] would definitely be involved, and I wouldn’t be surprised if Rich Paul took on the GM role. They already have the experience and knowledge to evaluate talent at all levels, and combining that with LeBron’s influence and expertise is a winning recipe,” Martin explained.
Kenyon Martin’s argument for LeBron’s potential as a team owner is compelling. With LeBron’s influence, respect within the league, and a business-savvy team around him, the shift to ownership seems like a natural next step. As James inches closer to retirement, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how “The King” navigates this new chapter in his career, potentially shaping the NBA landscape in Las Vegas.
