LeBron James reacted to the Los Angeles Lakers' sincere goodbye on social media.
All season, the big elephant in the room was whether or not LeBron James would remain a member of the Los Angeles Lakers during the offseason.
On June 30, 2026, that decision was revealed. While it still doesn't feel real, it's official that LeBron James will no longer be a member of the Los Angeles Lakers.
To make it seem even more official, the Lakers posted an official goodbye on their social media on Tuesday.
The Lakers Say Goodbye
For all of the reports of James and Jeanie Buss having some sort of internal strife, the former Lakers owner still decided to share a heartfelt message on social media for the departing James.
"LeBron James is one of the greatest athletes in history. We will always be thankful for his eight years with the Lakers - including the title he led us to in 202 under the toughest imaginable circumstances and the countless records he broke in purple and gold. We wish him the best in the future, both on the court and off. He will always be a cherished part of the Lakers family."
It may not seem like a huge gesture, but it's rare to see a team immediately put out a statement on a departing player to at least try to make sure the split was amicable. Most times, that statement doesn't come out for a few days or even sometimes a week.
LeBron James Reacts to the Tribute
LeBron took no time in sharing his own reaction to the Lakers' heartfelt tribute for him.
"No, THANK YOU! Truly a honor to wear the 💜💛 while trying to continuing the greatness & legacies that came before me! Hope I made a few proud during my stint. 🙏🏾🫡👑," James said on social media.
Regardless of how many reports may come out about LeBron James clashing with Lakers management or Jeanie Buss, this was still the classiest goodbye both parties could have. It sets a fantastic standard for how teams should let their superstar players exit their franchise.
What Comes Next for LeBron James?
Based on early reports from Dave McMenamin, it seems as though a key factor in LeBron leaving the Lakers was wanting to play "meaningful, competitive basketball".
It's a bit of a wild statement to say, considering that the Los Angeles Lakers were one game below the third seed last season and lost to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the playoffs.
They were a fantastic team when Luka Doncic, LeBron James, and Austin Reaves were all healthy together for the majority of the season. However, it could be that James just wants to leave LA, or he wants to play on a contender that'll be a guaranteed top-two seed.
The early teams to watch out for seem to be the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, and Golden State Warriors. However, none of those teams seem exactly better than the Lakers, besides possibly the Cavaliers.
