LeBron James confident players and owners will reach agreement

Despite the growing number of NBA players considering their overseas options, Miami Heat superstar LeBron James has no intentions of following his peers. Given how much criticism James received for his decision to play for the Heat during the previous NBA off-season, it isn't really surprising the 26 year old doesn't want to create any waves.

LeBron's only focus right now is getting better for the Heat's next season, as they make another run at an NBA championship. Even though the current NBA lockout seems to be getting uglier as time passes by, LeBron James remains hopeful both sides will eventually reach an agreement, telling reporters he was "very optimistic" about the 2011/12 regular season.

"I'm preparing for an NBA season," LeBron said in an interview with ESPN's Rachel Nichols. "I'm preparing for there to be a training camp in the next month. I'm very optimistic that Billy Hunter and the owners and David Stern will figure out a way to come together and for us to have a season, and I'll be ready for it. We all love the game of basketball so much, and the love of the game is always going to be there. Guys love the game."

For now, all LeBron can do is work on his game and watch what happens with the 2011/12 NBA regular season. Like many NBA superstars have done out in the past, James is working hard during the off-season to improve his game. James seems to be particularly focused on his inside game, holding training sessions with 2-time NBA champion Hakeem Olajuwon.

"I'm doing whatever it takes to just become a better basketball player," James said. "Just everyday.. just trying to critique my game -- seeing ways that I can get better so I can be more of a complete basketball player on the court, a better leader on and off the court and continue to work towards my goal of winning an NBA championship."

David is a Miami Heat fan that has followed the team for 15 years. Follow him on twitter @davidkingwriter.

Sources:
ESPN.com, "LeBron James: There will be a season"
Player and game information from ESPN.com