Image Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images

LeBron James Practices with South Bay Lakers for Second Consecutive Day as he Nears Regular Season Debut

LeBron James is nearing his 2025-26 NBA regular season debut.

Image Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images

Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James engaged in a practice session with the franchise’s G League affiliate, South Bay Lakers, for the second consecutive day. According to reports by ESPN, James didn’t feel any lingering pain from Wednesday and had a smooth practice session on Thursday. Notably, James, 40, headed to the G League after being cleared to practice for the first time in the 2025-26 NBA season. This is the first time that the 21-time All-Star has been assigned to the G League affiliate in his career.

Following Day 1 of the practice, ESPN’s Shams Charania revealed that the four-time champion looked great during the session and didn’t have any evident issues. “He moved well and he didn’t show signs of any issues as he’s worked through this nerve issue on his right side,” Charania said. “My understanding right now is that LeBron James is motivated and eager to get back out on the court potentially here mid to late this month.”

Now, as per the latest report by Dave McMenamin, James has had a second consecutive practice session with the South Bay Lakers. “LeBron James practiced with South Bay again Thursday without any lingering pain from Wednesday, sources told ESPN, an encouraging sign for James’ impending comeback,” he reported. Another report suggested that he could join the Lakers practice session on Monday if he progresses well over the weekend.

When Will LeBron James Make Regular Season Debut?

LeBron James suffered a sciatica injury in his right side and missed the entire preseason because of that. Later, reports suggested that the franchise and James are taking a patient and steady approach for his recovery and didn’t want to rush into things. Set to become the first player to play his 23rd NBA season, James is taking steps towards his season debut, and the latest reports suggest that fans could see him in action sooner than later.

While there is no definitive timeline for his return, James participating in five-on-five practices indicates that he is closer to making his way back to the court. James is about to turn 41 soon, and is already the oldest active player in the league. Considering his age, durability could be a concern, but his previous season’s performance suggests that he is still one of the best players in the league.

LeBron James

Garima Ranawat

Garima is a sports writer with around two years of experience in Indian sports and a newfound interest in the NBA. Inspired by the leadership of cricketing legend MS Dhoni, she wishes to bring in newer perspectives to the NBA fanatics with her writing.