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2w ago

LeBron James Picks Up $52.6M Option to Return for 23rd Lakers Season

The decision locks in his final-year pay, preventing him from becoming a free agent.

LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on against the Minnesota Timberwolves prior to the start of the first quarter of Game Four of the First Round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Target Center on April 27, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Timberwolves defeated the Lakers 116-113 to take a 3-1 series lead.
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LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts during warm up prior to the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game One of the Western Conference First Round NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena on April 19, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

Overview

  • LeBron James has officially exercised his $52.6 million player option for the 2025-26 season, keeping him under contract with the Lakers.
  • At age 40, he will become the first player in NBA history to compete in a 23rd season, extending his longevity record.
  • He returned to on-court workouts after a Grade 2 MCL sprain and has been training alongside his son, Bronny, ahead of training camp.
  • He has not decided whether to retire after 2025-26 and has said he won’t play for Team USA at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
  • James will monitor the Lakers’ offseason roster overhaul, including the addition of Luka Doncic, to assess the team’s championship prospects.