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LeBron James exercised his player option for the 2025-26 season with the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday as he appears to be in the final stages of his lengthy NBA career.
Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul told ESPN about James’ decision. The player option is reportedly worth $52.6 million and it will be his eighth season in Los Angeles.
James played 70 games during the 2024-25 season. It was the second straight year he played at least 70 games. He averaged 24.4 points, 8.2 assists and 7.8 rebounds per game as the Lakers put together one of the more intriguing seasons in recent memory.
“We understand the difficulty in winning now while preparing for the future. We do want to evaluate what’s best for LeBron at this stage in his life and career. He wants to make every season he has left count, and the Lakers understand that, are supportive and want what’s best for him.”
For James, it will be Year 23. He has four championships, four NBA MVPs and 21 All-Star selections.
He opened up about how much he has left to give in an interview with The Associated Press earlier this month, crediting his family as one of the main reasons why he’s continuing to play. Bronny James is in the Lakers’ organization and Bryce James is set to play in Arizona. Zhuri James, meanwhile, has her sights set on volleyball.
“They’re like ‘Dad, continue on your dream. This is your dream. Continue on your focus. You’ve been here for us this whole time,’” he said. “When you have that type of support… it makes it a lot easier.”
James also appeared to be intrigued by the possibility of playing with Bryce James as well as Bronny.
“At this point of my career, you think about when the end is. That’s human nature,” he said. “You think: Is it this year? Or next year? Those thoughts always creep into your mind at this point of the journey. But I have not given it a specific timetable, date. I’m seeing how my body and family reacts, too.”
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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