LeBron James confirms Lakers exit, will continue career

LeBron James has officially announced his departure from the Los Angeles Lakers, confirming widespread speculation. In a post on X, formerly Twitter, James expressed his gratitude for his tenure with the team.

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It has truly been an honor to wear the purple and gold while trying to continue the greatness and history that was here before me.

"It has truly been an honor to wear the purple and gold while trying to continue the greatness and history that was here before me," James wrote. "I hope I have made some people proud during my time here."

His announcement came shortly after Lakers co-owner Jeanie Buss thanked him for his eight years with the franchise. Buss specifically highlighted his role in leading the team to a championship in 2020 under challenging circumstances, referring to the COVID-19-affected season.

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I hope I have made some people proud during my time here.

While James is leaving the Lakers, multiple American media outlets report that he is not retiring. The 41-year-old superstar plans to play his 24th NBA season with a different team, a milestone that would make him the first player in history to do so. James has won four NBA titles throughout his career, with two each for the Miami Heat and Cleveland Cavaliers, and one with the Lakers.

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We will always be grateful for his eight years with the Lakers - including the year 2020, when he led us to the title under the toughest possible circumstances.