The Big Lead

LeBron James makes major decision on player option for 2025-26 season

The Los Angeles Lakers got their answer from LeBron James about his player option for the 2025-26 NBA season.

By Josh Sanchez

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James during media day at the UCLA Health Training Center.
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James during media day at the UCLA Health Training Center. / Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
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LeBron James has made his decision about his contract. The Los Angeles Lakers star has decided to pick up his player option for the 2025-26 NBA season, according to Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul.

Paul shared the news about LeBron picking up his $52.6 million player option in a statement to Shams Charnia of ESPN.

While the Lakers are looking to get younger and planning for the future, LeBron still believes that he is still capable of helping the team and wants to be a part of a championship contender.

MORE: Austin Reaves declines max contract extension with Los Angeles Lakers

"[LeBron] knows the Lakers are building for the future. He understands that, but he values a realistic chance of winning it all," Paul said in a statement. "We are very appreciative of the partnership that we’ve had for eight years with Jeanie [Buss] and Rob [Pelinka] and consider the Lakers as a critical part of his career."

Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James and forward LeBron James warm up before the game between the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James and forward LeBron James warm up before the game between the Cleveland Cavaliers. / Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

The 40-year-old James is entering his record-setting 23rd season in the NBA.

Whether this will be his "last dance" or he plans to continue playing after this season remains to be seen, but James proved last season that he still has some gas left in the tank.

MORE: NBA draft results 2025: Full list of Round 1 picks

Last season, James played in 70 games, averaging 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists on 51.3 percent shooting.

If it is the final season of LeBron's career, we will have to make sure to appreciate it and hopefully the NBA world will know so his legendary career can be celebrated.

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James during media day at the UCLA Health Training Center.
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James during media day at the UCLA Health Training Center. / Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

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