LeBron James has spoken publicly about the end of his memorable run with the Los Angeles Lakers, offering a message of gratitude to the franchise and its fans as he prepares for the next chapter of his historic career.
James responded after his longtime agent, Rich Paul, informed the Lakers that the basketball superstar would continue playing but would not return to Los Angeles for the 2026 to 2027 season.
In a message posted on social media, James thanked the organization and reflected on the responsibility of representing one of the most celebrated franchises in professional sports.
“No, thank you,” James wrote before recognizing the Lakers legends who came before him. He ended his message with a personal hope for how supporters would remember his time in Southern California.
“Hope I made a few proud during my stint.”
The response was brief, but it carried considerable meaning for Lakers fans who watched James lead the team for eight seasons. His departure closes an era that included an NBA championship, record breaking performances and some of the most significant moments of his career.
Lakers governor Jeanie Buss praised James following the announcement, describing him as one of the greatest athletes in history. Buss expressed appreciation for his eight seasons in Los Angeles and recognized his leadership during the team’s 2020 championship season.
The Lakers won that title inside the NBA bubble in Florida during the COVID 19 pandemic. James was named NBA Finals Most Valuable Player after leading Los Angeles past the Miami Heat in six games.
The championship was the 17th in Lakers history and tied the organization with the Boston Celtics for the most titles in league history at the time. It was also the fourth championship of James’ career.
James joined the Lakers in 2018 after completing his second run with the Cleveland Cavaliers. His arrival immediately restored national attention and championship expectations to a franchise that had missed the playoffs for several consecutive seasons.
Although his first season in Los Angeles ended without a playoff appearance, James and the Lakers quickly rebuilt the roster around him. The addition of Anthony Davis helped transform the team into a contender and eventually produced the 2020 championship.
James continued reaching major milestones while wearing purple and gold. He became the NBA’s career scoring leader in February 2023, passing former Lakers center Kareem Abdul Jabbar during a game at Crypto.com Arena.
He also became the first NBA player to surpass 50,000 combined points in regular season and playoff competition.
One of the most personal moments of his Lakers career came when he shared the court with his oldest son, Bronny James. The two became the first father and son to play together in an NBA game when they appeared for the Lakers during the 2024 season.
Bronny remains under contract with Los Angeles, meaning the departure could separate the father and son after two seasons as teammates.
Even as he entered his forties, James remained one of the league’s most productive players. During his final regular season with the Lakers, he averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists and 6.1 rebounds across 60 games.
He completed his 23rd NBA season, setting a league record for career longevity. His next season will extend that mark to 24.
Following several weeks of speculation about his future, James announced on July 24 that he would join the Philadelphia 76ers. He said his decision was motivated by his continued desire to compete and pursue another championship.
The move gives James an opportunity to play alongside Philadelphia stars Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. It also gives the 76ers one of the most experienced and accomplished players in basketball history as they attempt to compete for an Eastern Conference title.
For the Lakers, his departure creates both uncertainty and opportunity. The franchise must now determine how to build its next roster and establish a new identity after eight seasons centered around James.
His departure also ends one of the longest stays of his career. James played his first seven seasons with Cleveland, four with Miami, four more with Cleveland and eight with Los Angeles.
During his Lakers tenure, James averaged 25.9 points, 7.9 assists and 7.7 rebounds across 479 regular season games.
His time in Los Angeles was not without challenges. Injuries affected several seasons, and the Lakers experienced early playoff exits despite entering some years with championship expectations.
Still, James delivered the achievement that matters most to the Lakers organization and its supporters. He brought another championship banner to Los Angeles and added his name to a tradition shaped by stars including George Mikan, Jerry West, Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Magic Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant.
James arrived in Los Angeles already recognized as one of basketball’s greatest players. He leaves with another championship, several historic records and a permanent place in Lakers history.
Whether every supporter was proud may remain a matter of personal opinion. However, James’ influence on the franchise, the city and the sport is undeniable.
His next chapter will begin in Philadelphia, but his message to Los Angeles made one thing clear. His years with the Lakers meant more to him than simply another stop in a legendary career.
