BREAKING NEWS: Excitement fills California’s Place as Los Angeles Lakers power forward LeBron James Announces, I’m not going anywhere. He is set to return for the 2025-2026 Season after making the bold decision Head Coach JJ Redick has promised to make him…

Excitement fills California’s Place as Los Angeles Lakers power forward LeBron James Announces, I’m not going anywhere. He is set to return for the 2025-2026 Season after making the bold decision Head Coach JJ Redick has promised to make him…

In a powerful and emotional announcement that lit up the sports world on Saturday, Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James silenced months of speculation about his future with one simple phrase: “I’m not going anywhere.”

Standing tall in front of a packed media room at Crypto.com Arena, the 40-year-old four-time NBA champion confirmed that he will be returning for the 2025-2026 season, his 23rd year in the league. And yes—he’ll be doing it in the iconic purple and gold.

The announcement, which came with little warning, sent shockwaves through California and the wider basketball community. Fans flooded social media with reactions ranging from joy to disbelief, as many had believed this past season might be LeBron’s last.

“I’ve still got more to give,” LeBron said, smiling. “I love this game. I love this city. I love wearing this jersey. And I’m not done yet. I’m not going anywhere.”

A New Chapter With a New Coach

LeBron’s announcement comes just two weeks after the Lakers hired first-time head coach and former NBA sharpshooter JJ Redick. The move raised eyebrows across the league, especially given the high-pressure expectations in Los Angeles. But behind the scenes, Redick and LeBron have reportedly built a strong rapport—one that may have helped influence James’ decision to stay.

In a joint appearance, Redick stood beside LeBron at the podium and made a bold promise.

“We’re going to make this season count,” Redick said. “I’ve promised LeBron that we’re going to build a team around him that can win, and I mean it. He’s committed. I’m committed. And this organization is going all in.”

Redick also hinted at major offseason moves to come, with the Lakers expected to be aggressive in both the draft and free agency. “We’re not rebuilding. We’re reloading,” Redick added.

Defying Time, Again

LeBron’s longevity is already legendary. At 40 years old, he continues to play at a remarkably high level, averaging 24.7 points, 7.2 assists, and 6.9 rebounds this past season. Despite the Lakers’ early playoff exit, James consistently showed flashes of his prime, and many believe he still has enough left in the tank to chase another title.

“You watch him work out, you watch him in practice—he doesn’t look 40,” said teammate Anthony Davis. “He’s out there leading by example every single day. If he says he’s not done, then you better believe he’s not done.”

The Lakers finished the 2024-2025 season with a 44-38 record, landing the 7th seed in the West before falling in the first round. It was a frustrating end, but LeBron’s return signals that he sees unfinished business in Los Angeles.

A State Reacts

From downtown Los Angeles to Northern California, the announcement sparked celebration among Lakers fans and casual basketball followers alike.

“I was at work when the alert came in, and I just yelled out loud,” said Marina Gonzalez, a long-time fan from San Pedro. “LeBron staying? That’s everything. I thought this ride was over.”

LeBron’s decision is also likely to have ripple effects across the league, especially as younger players like Bronny James—LeBron’s son—prepare to enter the NBA. Bronny is currently expected to be drafted this summer, and speculation continues to swirl about whether father and son might end up on the same roster next season.

“I want to play with my son. That hasn’t changed,” LeBron said with a grin when asked about the possibility. “But no matter what happens with Bronny, I’m still locked in right here with the Lakers.”

Chasing Greatness, One More Time

As he prepares for his 23rd NBA season, LeBron James stands on the edge of yet another unprecedented feat. Already the league’s all-time leading scorer, a four-time MVP, and a global icon, he’s now chasing something more abstract: the perfect ending.

“I don’t know how many more years I’ve got,” LeBron admitted. “But I know this—while I’m still here, I’m giving everything I’ve got.”

And for the Lakers, for the fans, and for the city of Los Angeles, that’s more than enough to believe.