Julius Randle and Moe Wagner have praised LeBron James for the mental discipline, physical preparation and personal sacrifices behind his longevity.
Their comments, published October 8, 2026, came as James prepares for his 24th NBA season and his first with the Philadelphia 76ers.
James entered the NBA in 2003 and will approach his 42nd birthday in December.
The 76ers, meanwhile, continue their pursuit of a first championship since 1983.
Randle Highlights Mental Grind
Randle said staying competitive for more than two decades requires more than physical conditioning.
He pointed to the daily mental demands of professional basketball and the commitment needed to maintain a high standard.
"It's crazy," Randle said. "Some days I wake up and I'm like, I'm retiring today."
He added that the challenge is not only how James takes care of his body but also the mental grind of playing at that level every single day.
Randle also addressed the personal toll of a lengthy career, including time away from family.
James' family remains in Los Angeles as he prepares to join Philadelphia, adding a personal dimension to his transition.
"The toll it takes, the time away from your family, like all those different things, aspects, that weigh on you as a human being," Randle said.
He called James' focus heading into his 24th season "pretty impressive, honestly."
Wagner Recalls Rookie Lessons
Wagner, entering his ninth NBA season, recalled learning from James during his rookie campaign with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2018-19.
While recovering from an injury, Wagner regularly arrived early at the weight room to complete rehabilitation and meet practice obligations.
James, he said, was already there ahead of him.
"I think one thing that I've learned through LeBron is I was in rehab early on in my rookie year and I was in a weight room early every day to try to make practice on time," Wagner said.
"And LeBron was always there earlier. It's crazy because he ain't got nothing to prove, you know?"
Wagner said the experience left a lasting impression because James maintained demanding routines despite already being established as one of the NBA's leading players.
The Nets center also expressed interest in seeing how James performs in Philadelphia.
"Obviously, it's incredible," Wagner said. "I think he could play until he's 50, and still have an impact."
He noted that James proved last year he could be a third option and said he cannot wait to see what James does this season.
"I don't think we should take that for granted," Wagner added.
