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LeBron James extends career after Lakers' victory over Rockets

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 25, 2026, 3:51 PM

Last updated Jul 25, 2026

LeBron James extends career after Lakers' victory over Rockets

Summary

In the 2026 Western Conference playoffs, the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Houston Rockets 4-2 in the first round. Rich Paul, LeBron James' agent, stated that this series influenced James' decision to continue playing, suggesting that a different outcome might have pushed him toward retirement. Following the playoffs, James announced he would sign with the Philadelphia 76ers for the upcoming season. The Lakers faced a subsequent sweep in the second round against the Oklahoma City Thunder, but James' performance against the Rockets was a highlight.

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By the Numbers

•Lakers won their first-round series against Rockets 4-2.
•James averaged 23.2 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 8.3 assists in that series.
•James announced he will sign with the Philadelphia 76ers for 2026-27.
•The Lakers were swept by the Thunder in the second round.
•Rich Paul credited the Lakers' victory as pivotal for James' career decision.

Latest Updates

3:51 PMYahoo Sports — Rich Paul: Lakers’ playoff upset of Rockets led LeBron James to extend career

What they're saying

"
“That series, in my opinion, convinced him to keep playing,” longtime agent Rich Paul says of LeBron James. “I think that gave us another ride.”
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Golden State Warriors Houston Rockets Los Angeles Lakers Oklahoma City Thunder Philadelphia 76ers NBA Basketball

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Yahoo SportsJul 25, 2026, 3:51 PM
Rich Paul: Lakers’ playoff upset of Rockets led LeBron James to extend career
“That series, in my opinion, convinced him to keep playing,” longtime agent Rich Paul says of LeBron James. “I think that gave us another ride.”

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