Sports News Report
League: NBASport: BasketballCountry: United StatesCategory: Breaking News

LeBron James announces he won't return to Lakers for 24th season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 30, 2026, 5:27 PM

Last updated Jun 30, 2026

LeBron James announces he won't return to Lakers for 24th season
Summary

LeBron James has confirmed he will not play for the Los Angeles Lakers in his 24th NBA season, a decision announced on June 30. His agent informed the team that it can move forward without him, as James pursues his options in free agency. Since joining the Lakers in 2018, James led the franchise to an NBA championship in 2020. The announcement has drawn various reactions from the basketball community as the Lakers prepare to transition to younger players.

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Yahoo Sports
Status Watch
  • •LeBron James officially announces he will not return to the Lakers.
  • •James informed the team on June 30, coinciding with the start of free agency.
  • •He joined the Lakers in 2018, winning a championship in 2020.
  • •Reactions from the sports world highlight the impact of his decision.
  • •The Lakers may shift their focus to younger talents, like Luka Dončić.
Latest Updates
  • 5:27 PMYahoo Sports — Sports world reacts as LeBron James won't play for Lakers in 24th season
What they're saying
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Check out these reactions regarding LeBron James' decision to not return to the Los Angeles Lakers for his 24th NBA season.

Related Teams & Leagues
Los Angeles LakersNBABasketball

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