LOS ANGELES, United States — Basketball superstar LeBron James is set to continue his career away from the Los Angeles Lakers, bringing an end to a historic eight-season spell with one of basketball’s most iconic franchises.
The 41-year-old leaves Los Angeles as one of the most influential players in franchise history, having helped guide the Lakers to the 2020 NBA championship and adding another chapter to a career that has redefined longevity and excellence in professional sports.
James spent eight seasons with the Lakers after joining the team in 2018. During that period, he became the face of the franchise, broke numerous records, and helped deliver the organization’s 17th NBA title under the challenging conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic bubble in Orlando.
In a statement, the Lakers paid tribute to the four-time NBA champion and all-time leading scorer.
“LeBron James is one of the greatest athletes in history. We will always be grateful for his eight years with the Lakers, including the title he led us to in 2020 under the most difficult circumstances imaginable, and the countless records he broke in purple and gold,” the franchise said.
“We wish him the best in his future, both on and off the court. He will always be a cherished member of the Lakers family.”
James responded with a heartfelt message on social media, thanking the organization and its supporters.
“No, THANK YOU!” he wrote.
“It was truly an honor to wear the purple and gold and continue the greatness and legacies that came before me. Hope I made a few proud during my stint.”
A career defined by greatness
James leaves Los Angeles with his legacy firmly cemented among basketball’s all-time greats. During the most recent season, he averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists and 6.1 rebounds, continuing to perform at an elite level despite entering his third decade in the NBA.
His career achievements remain unparalleled. James is a 22-time NBA All-Star, four-time NBA champion and the league’s all-time leader in both points scored and games played.
The Akron, Ohio native was selected first overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2003 NBA Draft and quickly emerged as one of the most dominant players of his generation.
In 2010, he made headlines worldwide when he announced his departure from Cleveland for the Miami Heat during the televised special “The Decision.” The move ultimately resulted in two NBA championships in Miami before James returned to Cleveland in 2014.
His most celebrated achievement came in 2016 when he led the Cavaliers back from a 3-1 deficit against the Golden State Warriors in the NBA Finals, securing Cleveland’s first major professional sports championship in more than five decades.
Lakers legacy
James’ time in Los Angeles extended beyond basketball.
His leadership helped stabilize the franchise following the tragic 2020 helicopter crash that claimed the lives of Lakers legend Kobe Bryant, his daughter Gianna, and seven others.
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He also made history in 2024 by becoming the first NBA player to share the court with his son, Bronny James, creating one of the league’s most memorable family milestones.
As speculation grows over his next destination, media reports have linked James with several potential suitors, including the Golden State Warriors.
Wherever he lands next, his departure marks the end of a significant era for the Lakers and another turning point in one of the most remarkable careers in sports history.
