Included in the report by ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania that James was picking up his player option was a quote from his agent, Rich Paul. Paul stressed that James wants to compete for a championship and that he knows Los Angeles is building for the future around Luka Doncic.

After 22 seasons, LeBron James can finally check off a new first — opting into the final year of his contract.

LeBron James, 40, Makes Decision on NBA Future Amid Retirement Rumors originally appeared on Athlon Sports. The Los Angeles Lakers are heading into the 2025-26 season with high hopes. With an offseason to build around recently acquired superstar Luka Doncic and a new ownership group on the horizon, the franchise's future is looking bright.