LeBron James has decided to use his $52.6 million option to play for the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2025-26 season. This will make him the first NBA player ever to play 23 seasons, according to someone familiar with the decision.
This person talked to The Associated Press but stayed anonymous because neither LeBron nor the Lakers have officially announced it yet.
The news was first shared by ESPN and The Athletic.
LeBron James recently started practicing again after resting for several weeks because he hurt his knee in the last game of the Lakers’ playoff season. Earlier this month, he told the AP that he expects to be ready for training camp. This was a clear sign that he plans to play his 23rd season, which will make him the NBA player with the longest career, breaking a tie with Vince Carter.
James said, “I have plenty of time to heal my knee, take care of my body, and get as close to 100% as possible before training camp starts in late September.”
If there was any doubt about whether James, the oldest player currently in the NBA, would come back for another season, it’s now gone. He had until Sunday afternoon to decide on his player option, which, if used, will increase his career earnings to about \$580 million.
Next season will be the first full season with Luka Doncic as his teammate. Doncic joined the Lakers from Dallas in February, but even with him, the Lakers lost in the first round of the playoffs to Minnesota, despite being the No. 3 seed in a tough Western Conference.
James will turn 41 in December. He has been selected for the All-NBA team 21 times in his 22 seasons, including last year’s second-team selection. No other player has been chosen more than 15 times.
Last season, James averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per game. As the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, he has played in 1,562 regular-season games, which is just 49 games shy of Robert Parish’s record of 1,611 games—the most in NBA history. If he stays healthy, James is expected to break that record next season.
FAQ
What does it mean that LeBron James opted in?
Opting in means LeBron James chose to stay with the Los Angeles Lakers for the 2025–26 season by accepting the final year of his contract, which pays him $52.6 million.
Why did LeBron decide to stay with the Lakers?
While LeBron hasn’t given a detailed public reason, staying with the Lakers likely reflects his belief in the team’s future, comfort in Los Angeles, and possibly a desire to finish his career with the franchise.
Is this LeBron’s final NBA season?
LeBron hasn’t confirmed if this will be his last season. He has previously expressed interest in playing with his son, Bronny James, who was recently drafted.
How much is LeBron making for the 2025–26 season?
LeBron James will earn $52.6 million for the 2025–26 NBA season.
Did the Lakers want LeBron to stay?
Yes, the Lakers have consistently supported LeBron and likely welcomed his decision to return, as he remains a key player and leader for the team.