LeBron James announced on June 30, 2026, that he will leave the Los Angeles Lakers and continue playing for another NBA team in the 2026-27 season [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10]. At 41 years old, James is not retiring but plans to extend his 24-season career [1, 2, 4, 6, 9, 10].

James spent the past eight seasons with the Lakers, leading them to the 2020 NBA championship and breaking numerous records while wearing the team's purple and gold colors [1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10]. "No, THANK YOU! Truly an honor to wear the (Lakers colours) while trying to continue the greatness & legacies that came before me! Hope I made a few proud during my stint," James said in a statement [3]. Lakers Governor Jeanie Buss expressed gratitude, calling him "one of the greatest athletes in history" and thanking him for the 2020 title and record-breaking achievements. She added, "We wish him all the best in the future... He will always be a cherished part of the Lakers family." [7]

James’s agent, Rich Paul, confirmed the star intends to keep playing but away from Los Angeles next season. "LeBron James intends to continue his playing career but plans to do so away from the Lakers for the 2026-27 season," Paul said [4].

Reports suggest the Golden State Warriors are the leading candidate to sign James next season, though no official offer has been confirmed [1, 2, 4, 11].

LeBron’s career began when he was selected first overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2003 NBA Draft [1, 2, 3]. He played four seasons with the Miami Heat, winning two championships, then returned to Cleveland and led the Cavaliers to their first-ever NBA title in 2016, famously rallying from a 3-1 deficit against the Warriors [1, 2, 3].

In October 2024, LeBron and his son Bronny James became the first father-son duo to appear together in an NBA regular-season game [1, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8]. Last March, LeBron surpassed Robert Parish's record for most regular-season games played with 1,622 [1, 3, 6, 7, 8]. He holds NBA records for most career games played, most points scored (43,440), and the most consecutive All-Star selections (22) [1, 2, 4].

During the 2025-26 season, LeBron averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists, and 6.1 rebounds per game [2]. Despite his age, he continues to produce strong numbers on the court.

LeBron’s departure marks the end of a remarkable era for the Lakers. The next phase of his career will begin with a new team in the upcoming NBA season. [1, 3, 4]