Breaking News: LeBron James Has Announced He Wants to Retire from Basketball
By Marcus Holloway | June 7, 2025 | Los Angeles, CA
In an emotional and deeply reflective moment that sent shockwaves across the sports world, LeBron James, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, four-time MVP, and generational icon, has officially announced his desire to retire from professional basketball.
The 40-year-old Los Angeles Lakers superstar made the announcement during a live-streamed press conference early Tuesday morning from the Lakers’ training facility in El Segundo, flanked by his family, long-time agent Rich Paul, and Lakers management. The conference room, packed with media, teammates, and league representatives, was silent as LeBron took the stage—visibly emotional yet composed.
“I’ve given everything to this game,” LeBron began, his voice steady. “Basketball has been my life for as long as I can remember. But after a lot of soul-searching and countless conversations with my family, I’ve decided it’s time for me to step away from playing the game I love.”
The End of an Era
For many fans, players, and analysts, this day felt distant, almost unimaginable. LeBron James, a man often referred to as “King James,” has been an ever-present figure in basketball since being drafted No. 1 overall in 2003. His impact transcends the sport—touching fashion, film, business, philanthropy, and politics.
With a career that spanned 22 seasons, LeBron’s retirement signals the end of an era. It closes a chapter defined by legendary rivalries, unforgettable playoff moments, and a relentless pursuit of greatness. His journey, from a high school phenom in Akron, Ohio, to a global ambassador of sport and culture, is arguably one of the most storied in the history of athletics.
“There will never be another LeBron,” said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver in a statement shortly after the announcement. “His influence on this game is immeasurable. He’s changed how we define greatness.”
A Career of Records and Rings
LeBron James leaves behind a legacy that is staggering in its breadth and consistency:
- 4× NBA Champion (2012, 2013, 2016, 2020)
- 4× NBA Most Valuable Player (2009, 2010, 2012, 2013)
- NBA All-Time Leading Scorer with over 41,000 points
- 20× NBA All-Star
- All-NBA selections in 19 of 22 seasons
- 2 Olympic gold medals
In 2023, he broke Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s all-time scoring record—a feat many thought would never happen. And yet, he continued to excel, even at age 40, averaging 22.8 points, 7.9 assists, and 6.5 rebounds per game in the 2024–25 season.
“I never wanted to chase numbers,” LeBron said during the press conference. “I just wanted to win and leave the game better than I found it. If the numbers came, that was a bonus.”
Family at the Heart of the Decision
LeBron has long emphasized the importance of family in his life, often referring to his role as a father and husband as his greatest pride. In recent years, the idea of playing alongside or simply witnessing his sons, Bronny and Bryce, dominate the headlines nearly as much as his performances did.
Bronny James, now a promising second-year guard with the Cleveland Cavaliers, has credited his father as both his greatest mentor and motivator. Many fans hoped the two would share the court together—a dream that, while close, was never fully realized.
“This decision wasn’t easy,” LeBron admitted. “But I’ve spent so many years away from my family. My boys are becoming men, and I want to be there for that. I don’t want to miss any more of it.”
His wife, Savannah James, seated in the front row, wiped away tears as he spoke.
“He gave this game everything,” she later told reporters. “And now, it’s time for us to give something back to him.”
Tributes Pour In from Around the World
Within minutes of the announcement, the basketball community responded with an outpouring of gratitude, admiration, and reflection. Former and current players, coaches, celebrities, and fans shared tributes to the man they saw as a giant among giants.
Stephen Curry, one of LeBron’s greatest rivals and friends, posted:
“It was an honor to share the floor with you, King. You changed the game and raised the bar for all of us. Enjoy what’s next—you earned it.”
Magic Johnson tweeted:
“LeBron James is the greatest all-around player in NBA history. His IQ, his unselfishness, his leadership—those are just as important as the rings. Thank you, LeBron.”
President Joe Biden released an official White House statement acknowledging LeBron’s impact not only on sports, but also on education and civil rights:
“LeBron James is more than an athlete. He’s an example of what’s possible when talent meets purpose and compassion. From opening schools to speaking truth, he’s been a role model for millions.”
Beyond the Court: What’s Next for the King
LeBron has made it clear that while his playing days are ending, his influence is far from over. In fact, his post-retirement life is already well underway.
His production company, SpringHill Entertainment, continues to develop films, documentaries, and television content. In 2021, Space Jam: A New Legacy marked his big-screen debut, and several more projects are in development.
In 2018, he launched the I PROMISE School, a groundbreaking public school in Akron focused on serving at-risk youth—a model that has gained national recognition.
“That school is one of the things I’m most proud of,” LeBron said. “Helping kids see their worth, their potential—that’s legacy.”
He’s also expressed interest in NBA ownership, something Commissioner Silver acknowledged in his statement:
“If LeBron James ever decides to become an owner, there will be a line around the block to work with him.”
Speculation is already swirling that James could be involved in efforts to bring an expansion team to Las Vegas, a city where he’s publicly expressed interest in building a franchise.
A Final Message to the Fans
LeBron concluded the press conference with a message directly to his fans—the millions who have watched him since his debut with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2003, through the Miami Heat championships, his return to Cleveland, and his final act with the Lakers.
“To every fan who ever wore my jersey, stayed up late to watch, defended me in barbershops or Twitter threads—thank you. I felt your love every step of the way.”
“I’ve done what I set out to do. I’ve inspired, I’ve competed, I’ve grown. Now, it’s time for the next chapter—whatever that may be.”
As he stepped away from the podium, applause erupted. Reporters stood. Teammates wiped away tears. His family embraced him. It felt less like a goodbye—and more like a coronation.
Conclusion
LeBron James retires as one of the most consequential athletes in the history of sports—not just for his breathtaking skill, but for the grace, dignity, and responsibility he brought to greatness.
His story is etched in hardwood and history, in banners and broken records, in scholarships and smiles. As the game prepares to move on, it does so forever changed by the man who wore No. 23, then No. 6, and always played like No. 1.
Farewell, King.
And thank you.
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