local
LeBron hits free agency: James not returning to Lakers, plans to play 24th season elsewhere
By ABC at KSTP 5 Eyewitness News (ABC)
· 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 i...
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.
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About this story
Original reporting by KSTP 5 Eyewitness News (ABC) . The Minneapolis 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 KSTP 5 Eyewitness News (ABC) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: June 30, 2026 ·
Source: KSTP 5 Eyewitness News (ABC) ·
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 i...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 30, 2026 by KSTP 5 Eyewitness News (ABC) and curated for The Minneapolis readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by ABC at KSTP 5 Eyewitness News (ABC). To learn more about how The Minneapolis selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Minneapolis, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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