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.

Lakers star LeBron James has exercised his $52.6 million option as expected. He is poised to become the first NBA player to compete during 23 seasons.

LeBron James is exercising his $52.6 million option with the Los Angeles Lakers for 2025-26, further confirming that he will become the first player in NBA history to play a 23rd season, a person with knowledge of the decision said Sunday.