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LeBron James to leave Los Angeles Lakers after 24th NBA season
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
NBA superstar LeBron James will return for his 24th season, but not with the Los Angeles Lakers, a move confirmed by Lakers co-owner Jeanie Buss. James, the league's all-time leading scorer, expressed his honor in wearing the Lakers' purple and gold, hoping he made fans proud during his eight years with the team. Buss acknowledged James as one of history's greatest athletes, thanking him for his contributions, including leading the Lakers to their 17th title in 2020. James joined the Lakers in 2018 and also broke the league's all-time scoring record during his tenure. His agent, Rich Paul, informed ESPN that James had notified the Lakers of his decision as a courtesy before free agency began. James has been linked to possible returns to Cleveland or Miami, or a move to join Stephen Curry on the Golden State Warriors. The Warriors are reportedly looking to assemble a roster of veteran superstars, potentially including James's former Lakers teammate Anthony Davis. James's 23rd campaign saw him average 20.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 7.2 assists in the regular season, and 23.2 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 7.3 assists in the playoffs, leading the Lakers to a first-round victory. He also realized his dream of playing alongside his son, Bronny James, after the Lakers drafted him in 2024. Luka Doncic, acknowledged as a new lynchpin for the Lakers, also bid farewell to James on Instagram.
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