41-Year-Old Lakers Star LeBron James Not Retiring, Seeking New Team for 24th Season

(CNA Los Angeles, July 30, International News) Sports channel ESPN reported today that NBA star LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers will return to the court in the 2026-2027 season, marking an unprecedented 24th season. However, James's agency revealed that he will bid farewell to his old team, the Lakers, and join another team.

James (LeBron James), 41, had his agency, Klutch Sports Group, confirm to ESPN reporter Shams Charania that James has informed the Lakers organization that they can begin planning for the team's direction after his departure, as he will be wearing another team's uniform next season.

Sources told Charania yesterday that the Golden State Warriors are expected to pursue James immediately after the free agency market opens at 6 p.m. Eastern Time on June 30. The Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat, where James has played, are also expected to join the bidding war.

James could have chosen to return to the Lakers for his ninth season or retire, becoming one of the greatest basketball players of all time. However, he will choose to play for a new team, likely the final destination of his illustrious career.

James will turn 42 in December this year. He has won 4 NBA championships and been named the regular season Most Valuable Player (MVP) 4 times in his career.

ESPN had earlier cited sources revealing that as Warriors star Draymond Green declined his $27.6 million player option today, the Warriors intend to pursue James in the free agency market and also want to trade for Washington Wizards star forward Anthony Davis. (Compiled by Hong Qi-yuan) 1150701

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