‘Hope I made a few proud during my stint’ as LeBron bids farewell to the Lakers

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, July 2, 2026

LeBron James has officially left the Los Angeles Lakers after eight seasons, concluding a tenure highlighted by an NBA championship and multiple league records. His departure marks a pivotal moment in the NBA offseason as teams compete to sign the 41-year-old star for what could be his 24th season.

LeBron James has confirmed his departure from the Los Angeles Lakers, ending an eight-year tenure with the team as the NBA free agency period commenced. The 41-year-old superstar, widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players in history, expressed gratitude toward the Lakers organization and fans for the opportunity to wear the team’s iconic purple and gold.

James, who joined the Lakers in 2018 after stints with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat, led the franchise to its 17th NBA championship in 2020 during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. During his time in Los Angeles, he earned numerous accolades, including becoming the NBA’s all-time leading scorer and securing his 22nd consecutive All-Star selection in February 2024—a league record.

Responding to a farewell message from Lakers governor Jeanie Buss, James wrote on social media that it was an honor to continue the legacies associated with the franchise. He added he hoped to have made fans proud during his tenure. Buss paid tribute to James as "one of the greatest athletes in history," acknowledging his contributions on and off the court, including breaking multiple records while donning the Lakers uniform. She conveyed the organization’s best wishes for his future endeavors and affirmed that James would always remain part of the Lakers family.

James’s career has been marked by durability and longevity. In October 2024, he and his son, Bronny James, made history as the first father-son duo to play together in a regular-season NBA game, fulfilling a long-standing personal goal for the veteran forward. Originally selected as the first overall pick in the 2003 NBA Draft by the Cleveland Cavaliers, James spent seven seasons in Cleveland before a high-profile free agency move to the Miami Heat. He returned to the Cavaliers in 2014 and ultimately signed with the Lakers in 2018.

The departure of James opens a significant chapter in NBA free agency, with many observers closely watching where the 41-year-old will continue his career. His next destination remains the league’s most anticipated storyline as teams vie to add the seasoned forward for what would be a historic 24th NBA season.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.