James, the league’s all-time leading scorer who turns 41 in December and will enter an unprecedented 23rd NBA season – breaking a tie with Vince Carter for most NBA seasons played – had until 2 p.m. on Sunday to decide on the option in his contract as part of the two-year, $101.4 million contract he signed with the Lakers last summer.

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.

Los Angeles Lakers legend LeBron James is set to play in a record 23rd NBA season after his agent said the 40-year-old has exercised an option to extend his contract.