LeBron James will enter his 23rd NBA season this October with the Los Angeles Lakers as his quest to win another championship resumes. This could potentially be the last season of the future Hall of Famer with the Purple and Gold, although that depends on how the team fares.

The thing with James is that despite his age (40), he continues to play at a high level. His numbers last season prove that — 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists in 70 regular season games.

However, what James wants most is another chance at his fifth championship. Alongside the 21-time All-Star, the Lakers also have Luka Doncic to support him. But will their tandem be enough to contend for the 2026 title?

With most teams stacking their rosters with talent, the Lakers’ path won’t be easy. The bigger question, then, is what James will do after the 2025–26 season — regardless of whether he wins a championship or not.

LBJ may take his act elsewhere

Another disappointing season with the Lakers could force James to weigh his options. He could consider joining another team — one with a stronger chance to win a championship.

However, ESPN insider Brian Windhorst suggested an intriguing alternative for the four-time MVP: the possibility of playing in another league if things do not work out in Los Angeles.

“Look, he’s been linked to potentially playing in other leagues. I don’t know, maybe. But if he stays healthy, I do not see LeBron James slowing down. Maybe he’s tired of doing it, but I do not see LeBron James slowing down that much,” Windhorst said via BasketNews.

Windhorst emphasized that James is unlikely to decline anytime soon. And considering the top pick of the 2003 Draft is also a billionaire, James certainly has options.

Should his 23rd NBA season end in disappointment, James could easily take his talents elsewhere and still earn millions. But given his wealth, the 6-foot-9 forward could also explore a more ambitious path — creating a basketball league of his own.

Reports surfaced last July that James, together with business partner Maverick Carter and Nikola Jokic’s agent, Misko Raznatovic, had discussed the idea of a world-touring basketball league. While nothing has been finalized, it shows that serious conversations are underway.

It remains an option if James feels it is time to move on from the NBA. Win or lose this 2025–26 season, his legacy is secure. That gives him the freedom to try something entirely new — even building a league where he calls the shots.