LeBron James will become the first player in NBA history to play 23 seasons, after confirming his return to the Los Angeles Lakers for the 2025-26 campaign.
James, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, has opted into his $52.6 million (£41.6m) player option, his agent Rich Paul, CEO of Klutch Sports, told ESPN on Sunday. The 40-year-old remains undecided on how long he intends to continue his illustrious career, but for now, his eyes are firmly set on another title.
“LeBron wants to compete for a championship,” said Paul. “He knows the Lakers are building for the future. He understands that, but he values a realistic chance of winning it all.”
“We are very appreciative of the partnership we’ve had for eight years with Jeanie \[Buss] and Rob \[Pelinka] and consider the Lakers a critical part of his career. We 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.”
James, who has played in 1,562 regular-season games, is now just 50 games shy of breaking Hall of Famer Robert Parish’s NBA record for most appearances.
In the 2024-25 season, the 21-time All-Star averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds and 8.2 assists across 70 games, ranking in the top 22 in each statistical category.
A four-time league MVP and four-time NBA champion, James entered the league in 2003 as the No.1 overall pick by the Cleveland Cavaliers. He was only 18 at the time, yet quickly cemented his status as one of the game’s greatest ever players.
As he prepares for an unprecedented 23rd season, James continues to redefine longevity and excellence in professional basketball.