LeBron James, an undeniable NBA history maker, has extended his stay with the Los Angeles Lakers by opting into his $52.6 million contract for the 2025-26 season. This decision sets him on course to become the first player ever to play in 23 NBA seasons, a testament to his extraordinary durability and consistent excellence.
His agent, Rich Paul, confirmed the move, emphasizing that James’s primary motivation is to “compete for a championship.” Paul noted James’s understanding of the Lakers’ future-oriented building, yet stressed his client’s valuation of a tangible opportunity to win now. This delicate balance is central to James’s continued commitment.
The long-standing partnership between James and the Lakers, now in its eighth year, is characterized by mutual respect. Paul conveyed that the Lakers are supportive of James’s desire to ensure “every season he has left count,” indicating a shared vision for maximizing his impact in the twilight of his career.
James’s statistical output from the previous season (24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, 8.2 assists in 70 games) underscores his continued elite status. The NBA’s career leading scorer, a 21-time All-Star, four-time league MVP, and four-time NBA champion, James is also on the verge of surpassing Robert Parish’s record for most games played.