LeBron James announces departure from Lakers after eight seasons
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 30, 2026, 7:35 PM
Last updated Jun 30, 2026
LeBron James confirmed he will not return to the Los Angeles Lakers for the upcoming NBA season. The four-time champion, who joined the team in 2018, expressed gratitude for his time in purple and gold. Lakers president Jeannie Buss thanked James for his contributions, including the 2020 championship. James will enter free agency at age 41, marking a new chapter in his career as the NBA free agency period begins on June 30.
- •LeBron James ends his Lakers tenure after eight seasons.
- •He expressed gratitude, hoping to have made fans proud.
- •Jeannie Buss highlighted his significant contributions to the franchise.
- •James will explore free agency at age 41 starting June 30.
- •The team can now plan their offseason without him.
- 7:35 PMYahoo Sports — LeBron James breaks silence on leaving Lakers, 'Hope I made a few proud'
"LeBron James breaks silence on leaving the Los Angeles Lakers. Here is what the star said about his decision:
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