JJ Redick doesn\u2019t think very highly of those who believed LeBron James was teasing a serious announcement.<\/p>\n
James, 40, posted a teaser video for \u201cThe Second Decision\u201d<\/a> on Monday, stating the reveal would happen Tuesday.<\/p>\n While some wondered if he\u2019d be announcing his final season, others pondered if it was a publicity stunt.<\/p>\n It turned out to be the latter<\/a>, an ad campaign for a liquor company.<\/p>\n LeBron James in an ad for a liquor company. X\/KingJames<\/p>\n \u201cYou guys are idiots,\u201d Redick, James\u2019 friend and the Lakers head coach, told reporters<\/a> Tuesday. \u201cWe all knew it was an ad, right? I\u2019m sure I got some texts. \u2026 I think most people that text me are also aware that it was probably an ad. Nobody was freaking out.\u201d<\/p>\n Retirement rumors have swirled around James in recent years, given his age and the mileage on his legs \u2014 he\u2019s entering his 23rd NBA season.<\/p>\n But he has remained productive and relatively healthy; in 70 games last season, James averaged 24.4 points, 8.2 assists and 7.8 rebounds while leading the Lakers to a 50-33 record in Redick\u2019s first year as a coach.<\/p>\n JJ Redick coaching the Lakers against the Warriors in a preseason game on Oct. 5, 2025. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect<\/p>\n LeBron James (r.) with son Bronny (l.) on the Lakers bench during a preseason game against the Warriors on Oct. 5, 2025. Getty Images<\/p>\n The third-seeded Lakers, however, were upset by the No. 6 Timberwolves in a 4-1 series loss in the first round.<\/p>\n There was also speculation James might push for a trade<\/a> as the Lakers shift their long-term focus to Luka Doncic leading the franchise after the seismic midseason trade with the Mavericks.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n James has been motivated to play with his son, Bronny, whom the Lakers took in the second round of the 2024 NBA Draft.<\/p>\n