That’s Baller: LeBron James Secures $97.1 Million Extension with the Los Angeles Lakers

LeBron James has secured an impressive bag by agreeing to a two-year $97.1 million contract extension with the Los Angeles Lakers. 

The 37-year-old was slated to become a free agent after next season as he neared the end of his contract. However, things seemingly took a turn on Wednesday when Klutch Sports CEO and James’ agent Rich Paul told ESPN that the megastar would be sticking with the Lakers through the 2024-25 season. 

According to Senior NBA Insider Shams Charania, James’ extension is worth upwards of $111 million over two years based on salary cap rises.

LeBron James’ deal is worth up to $111 million over two years based on salary cap rises. https://t.co/2SryOYbJMY

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) August 17, 2022

According to multiple outlets, the deal includes a 15% trade kicker as well as a player option for the 2024–25 season, an offer identical to that of teammate Anthony Davis. James will receive a guaranteed lifetime salary of $532 million thanks to the historic agreement, which is the highest sum ever paid to an NBA player.

James joined the Los Angeles Lakers in 2018 and, among his many accomplishments, led the franchise to its 17th NBA championship.