The People s Daily published a signed article by James on September 8: Basketball is a bridge connecting each other

The People's Daily published a signed article by LeBron James on September 8, 2025, "Basketball is the bridge connecting each other."

James just finished his personal trip to China a few days ago.

The original text of the People's Daily is as follows:

The warm and friendly nature of Chinese friends touched me deeply. All I can do is to do my best in every game and express my gratitude to everyone.

Soon after, I will start my career 23rd American Basketball Team (NBA) season. I wear the No. 23 jersey most of the time, which is a meaningful number to me. Before this special season comes, I come to China again to start the next journey with the fans here.

This is the fifteenth time I have launched a tour to China in my career. Every time I come here, my family and I are warmly welcomed. I was deeply moved by the enthusiasm and friendship of Chinese friends. All I can do is to do is to give my all in every game and express my gratitude to everyone.

Basketball is not only a sport, but also a bridge connecting each other. Love flows in our hearts. During an event 13 years ago, I had a brief exchange with Chinese college student Niu Ziwei. Today, she has become a teacher and a mother of two children. This time I came to China, I met her and her family. I felt deeply honored, and I also felt the responsibility to promote sports exchanges. I also have 3 children. I know that basketball can inspire generations to pursue my dreams. Seeing that there are so many young people in China who love basketball, I hope I can also contribute to the development of Chinese basketball.

The basketball atmosphere in China has always been surprising. There are many well-known basketball players here, and many excellent young players have emerged. In Chengdu, Sichuan, I participated in the training class of the Chinese National Youth Team. I shared my experience with them: take every training class seriously, the more difficult it is to practice, the more calm the competition is. Many young people ask me how to play basketball well? I think there are 3 key factors - determination, commitment and love. If you love basketball, make up your mind and devote yourself to it, you will definitely gain something.

I love basketball, and basketball also inspires me. Although I am almost 41 years old, my age is just a number. As long as I am still playing basketball and can play games, I will try my best to do better. I am very strict with myself and I want to keep creating new achievements and strive to be the best player.

LeBron James

(The author is a member of the Los Angeles Lakers in the US, interviewed by our reporter Wang Liang)​​​​​