In a moment that will go down in NBA history, Los Angeles Lakers legend LeBron James shocked the sports world today with a major announcement that left fans in awe and new Lakers head coach JJ Redick absolutely speechless.
Standing at center court at the Crypto.com Arena, surrounded by family, teammates, and the media, LeBron stepped up to the microphone with a calm smile, took a long pause, and delivered just two words that immediately broke the internet:
“It’s done.”
The Announcement: LeBron James Officially Retires from the NBA
After 22 historic seasons, four NBA championships, four MVPs, and becoming the all-time leading scorer in league history, LeBron James has officially announced his retirement from professional basketball.
The 40-year-old superstar, whose impact on the game transcended eras, confirmed that the 2024–25 season was his final one — a farewell tour he chose to keep private until now.
“I gave this game everything I had. My heart, my mind, my soul — all of it,” LeBron said, visibly emotional. “Now it’s time to give that same energy to my family, my businesses, and the next chapter of my life.”
JJ Redick Left Speechless
Head coach JJ Redick, who just completed his first season coaching LeBron, was reportedly unaware of the timing of the announcement. Cameras caught Redick with his hand over his mouth, clearly stunned. Later, he said:
“I’m still processing it. Coaching LeBron — even for a season — was one of the greatest honors of my life. The game will never see another like him.”
The End of an Era
LeBron retires with a résumé unmatched in modern sports:
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All-time NBA points leader (40,234)
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4× NBA Champion (2012, 2013, 2016, 2020)
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4× NBA MVP
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20× NBA All-Star
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Olympic Gold Medalist
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Influential off-court activist and entrepreneur
From Cleveland to Miami to Los Angeles — and briefly teaming up with his son Bronny James this past season — LeBron’s journey captivated fans for over two decades.
Fan Reaction: A Mix of Tears and Gratitude
News of LeBron’s retirement spread instantly across social media, with millions of posts thanking him for his years of excellence:
“Thank you for the memories, King 👑”
“Greatest to ever do it. Period.”
“We’ll never see another LeBron James.”
Murals in Los Angeles were quickly updated with tributes, and Nike confirmed a special edition of the “LeBron XXIII Legacy” sneaker will be released in commemoration.
What’s Next for LeBron?
LeBron hinted at staying involved in the game — perhaps as a team owner or media personality — but emphasized that his priority now is family and philanthropy.
He plans to expand the work of the LeBron James Family Foundation, including the “I PROMISE School” in Akron, Ohio, and continue building his entertainment company, SpringHill, which has grown into a major force in sports media and film.
Final Word
With one final bow, LeBron James exits the game not just as one of the greatest players of all time — but as a cultural icon who redefined excellence, leadership, and longevity.
The NBA will go on, but it will never be the same.
Thank you, King. 👑
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