LeBron James completed his 22nd NBA season, matching Vince Carter's record for the most seasons played in league history. At 40 years old, James defied age-related expectations, maintaining a high level of performance throughout the 2024-25 season.
During the regular season, James averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists over 70 games, with a field goal percentage of 51.3%. His contributions helped the Los Angeles Lakers to their first 50-win season since 2020 and securing the third seed in the Western Conference.
Despite the strong regular-season performance, the Lakers suffered a surprise elimination in the first round of the playoffs by the sixth-seeded Minnesota Timberwolves.
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) and Minnesota Timberwolves forward Julius Randle (30).
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) and Minnesota Timberwolves forward Julius Randle (30).
Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
James averaged 25.4 points, 9.0 rebounds and 5.6 assists in that series, and dropped the most points by a 40-year-old in NBA playoffs history, following a 38-point, 10-rebound performance in Game 3 (via SportsCenter).
Following the season's conclusion, James shared a highlight reel on his Instagram story with a caption that read, "Year 22!! Thank you all. That was hella fun!"
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James posts on Instagram.
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James posts on Instagram.
kingjames / Instagram
James, a four-time NBA Champion and four-time league MVP is still considered one of the best players in the league today, despite his slight dip in production this season. The league's all-time leading scorer, he became the first player to reach 50,000 career points, and also became the oldest player to record multiple 40-point games.
James holds a $52.6 million player option for the 2025-26 season, with a decision deadline of June 29. While he has not publicly committed to returning, reports indicate that he is inclined to continue playing.