Following the official retirement announcement of long-time NBA point guard Rajon Rondo, Los Angeles Lakers’ luminary LeBron James took a moment to honor his former teammate.
During his illustrious 16-year career, Rondo spent two seasons in Los Angeles alongside James, contributing significantly to the Lakers’ 2020 NBA championship victory. James expressed deep admiration for Rondo, despite their relatively brief time together on the court.
In a statement to reporters, James praised Rondo, labeling him as “one of the best players I ever played with,” citing his exceptional basketball intelligence. He recounted Rondo’s confidence in their ability to secure a championship together, a feat they accomplished during their time as teammates.
LeBron James on Rajon Rondo officially announcing his retirement: “One of the best players I ever played with. … ‘Do always talked about if he ever teamed up with me, he knew we could win a championship. And we did that” pic.twitter.com/GtLofpAUtg
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) April 3, 2024
The bond between James and Rondo extended beyond their shared Lakers tenure, with both players having faced off numerous times as rivals. During James’ stints with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat, Rondo was a prominent figure for the Boston Celtics, a team known as one of James’ most formidable playoff opponents.
Rondo’s legacy in the NBA is cemented by his two championship titles and four All-Star selections. As a point guard, he was widely regarded as one of the league’s finest, leading in assists three times and earning four All-Defensive selections.
As Rondo embarks on the next chapter of his life in retirement, he does so with the knowledge that he has garnered the utmost respect from a basketball legend like LeBron James.
