James is mulling a run for president of the National Basketball Players Association, according to multiple reports. With both the players and the owners eligible to opt out of the current collective bargaining agreement following the 2016-17 season, the union would assuredly like a publicly recognizable face leading its efforts in the event of another labor dispute. The union also needs a single, clear voice after two years of turmoil regarding executive director Billy Hunter.
James took an active role in the 2011 labor negotiations and showed a familiarity with the issues while discussing labor matters at this year’s All-Star weekend. While his presidency would add to his off-court demands, James recently cleared up some space on his schedule by saying he would no longer compete for Team USA in the World Championships or the Olympics.
The association is due to meet in Las Vegas this month, when it could vote on new leadership with president Derek Fisher‘s session expiring. James would be the first Hall of Fame-caliber union president since Patrick Ewing more than a decade ago.
