What is LeBron James’ net worth in 2025? Details explored as Lakers star choses $52.6 million option for NBA 2025-26

LeBron James just exercised his $52.6 million player option to return to play for the Lakers during the 2025-26 NBA season, as told by his agent and CEO of Klutch Sports, Rich Paul. Paul told ESPN on Sunday morning (June 29,2025) that,

“LeBron wants to compete for a championship. He knows the Lakers are building for the future. He understands that, but he values a realistic chance of winning it all. We are very appreciative of the partnership that we’ve had for eight years with Jeanie [Buss] and Rob and consider the Lakers as a critical part of his career."

What this means is that through this deal, LeBron James has secured his immediate future in the NBA, but once the next season concludes and his contract expires, he will become a free agent with the highest bidders banging down his door to secure his services, assuming he doesn't retire. According to an insider, apparently, there is already speculation surrounding potential retirement. In a recent video snippet that was shared online, reportedly filmed during a dinner outing with his wife, Savannah, Miami Heat's Kevin Love and his wife, and a few other guests, he can be heard saying,

"[Savannah] wants me to f*cking tretire in the next year or so"

This season also marks LeBron James' eighth season with the LA Lakers, making it his longest single run with one team, while also marking his 23rd consecutive season as an active player, which is an NBA record. The 40-year-old is also just 50 games shy of breaking Hall of Famer Robert Parish’s record for the most games played in the regular season.

He further added, “We understand the difficulty in winning now while preparing for the future. We do want to evaluate what’s best for LeBron at this stage in his life and career. He wants to make every season he has left count, and the Lakers understand that, are supportive and want what’s best for him.”

What is LeBron James' net worth?

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According to sites like Spotrac, King James has earned a whopping $581.3 million in his playing career. In fact, in his rookie year, he pocketed $4 million with the Cleveland Cavaliers, while last year with the Lakers, he received $48.7 million.

As per Forbes, LeBron James' real-time net worth is $1.2 billion and is ranked number 6 in the category of World’s Highest-Paid Athletes, just after Lionel Messi. This, however, doesn't just come from playing games. James is also a businessman who has amassed his wealth through endorsements and multiple off-court ventures.

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