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LeBron James confirms exit from Lakers, potential return to Cavaliers considered

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 1, 2026, 1:05 AM

Last updated Jul 1, 2026

LeBron James confirms exit from Lakers, potential return to Cavaliers considered

Summary

LeBron James has officially announced that his time with the Los Angeles Lakers is over after eight seasons. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar commented on James' departure, expressing that it will not matter if James wins a championship should he return to the Cleveland Cavaliers, as the focus will be on his legacy and relationship with hometown fans. Abdul-Jabbar suggested that this could lead to a unique future for James post-retirement, potentially including a run for mayor of Cleveland.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•James' tenure with Lakers ends after eight years.
•Abdul-Jabbar praises James' contributions to Lakers.
•Speculation rises about James possibly returning to Cavaliers.
•Abdul-Jabbar emphasizes fan appreciation over championship outcomes.
•Potential for James to pursue a political career in Cleveland.

Latest Updates

1:05 AMYahoo Sports — Kareem Abdul-Jabbar names what ‘won’t matter’ if LeBron James joins Cavaliers after Lakers exit

What they're saying

"
It’s official, LeBron James’ tenure with the Los Angeles Lakers has come to an end after eight years. After weeks of rumors, LeBron James has confirmed that he will no longer play for the Los Angeles Lakers next season.
— Yahoo Sports

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Cleveland Cavaliers Los Angeles Lakers New York Knicks NBA Basketball