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LeBron hits free agency: James not returning to Lakers, plans to play 24th season elsewhere
By Tim Reynolds, Associated Press at KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate)
· June 30, 2026
· 5 min read
LeBron James is leaving the Los Angeles Lakers, which means another decision awaits.A mere 16 years after his first famed “decision” — the one that saw him leave Cleveland for Miami — James is getting ready to change uniforms once again. He has told the Lakers that his eight-year run with them is...
Key takeaway He has told the Lakers that his eight-year run with them is over and that he'll play a record-extending 24th NBA season elsewhere.
Why this matters in The San Antonio
While the departure of LeBron James from the Los Angeles Lakers sends shockwaves through the NBA, San Antonio Spurs fans may be watching with interest as the free agent market unfolds. The Spurs, with their own rich history of success, have been rebuilding and may not be a likely destination for James, but the ripple effects of his decision could impact the team's offseason plans. As James considers his options, including a potential move to the Golden State Warriors, the Spurs will be looking to navigate the Western Conference landscape and make strategic moves to bolster their roster. With the Spurs' own legacy of attracting top talent, fans may wonder if the team will make a splash in the free agent market or focus on developing their young core. As the NBA's offseason player movement window heats up, San Antonio will be keeping a close eye on how the James saga plays out and how it might impact the team's chances in the competitive Western Conference.
About this story
Original reporting by KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) . The San Antonio surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: June 30, 2026 ·
Source: KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) ·
Reading time: 5 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? LeBron James is leaving the Los Angeles Lakers, which means another decision awaits.A mere 16 years after his first famed “decision” — the one that saw him leave Cleveland for Miami — James is getting ready to change uniforms once again. He has told the Lakers that his eight-year run with them is...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 30, 2026 by KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) and curated for The San Antonio readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Tim Reynolds, Associated Press at KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate). To learn more about how The San Antonio selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The San Antonio, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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