Image Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images

LeBron James Heads to G League, Participates in First Full Practice of Season

James is recovering from a sciatica injury.

Image Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images

Los Angeles Lakers great LeBron James was assigned to the franchise’s G League affiliate for the first time in his career as he is inching towards a return. According to the reports by ESPN’s Shams Charania, James was cleared to practice for the first time in this NBA season. Later, Charania revealed that the 40-year-old looked great as he participated in his first full practice, including 5-on-5 play.

James, the four-time NBA champion, is yet to make his 2025-26 season debut as he is suffering from sciatica injury in his right side. He, along with the Lakers, took a patient and steady approach for his return on the court. As per reports, he is set to play his first game of the season on November 18. Now that James’ return date is inching closer, Charania reported that he was assigned to the South Bay Lakers and was expected to undergo full practice, including 5-on-5 play.

Lakers' LeBron James was assigned to the franchise's NBA G League affiliate, South Bay, today and will participate in his first full practice of the season, including 5-on-5 play, as he works toward a debut.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) November 12, 2025

This is the first time in his 22-season-long career that James is headed to the South Bay Lakers. Though he could theoretically opt to play a G League game, it is highly unlikely that he would opt so. His association with the team is almost intended solely for controlled team practice as he continues his recovery process towards a debut.

LeBron James Looked Great, Felt Great During First Full Practice

Shams Charania later shared insights from LeBron James’ first full practice session with the South Bay Lakers. He revealed that the 21-time All-Star looked great during the session and didn’t show any issues. “Sources told me this afternoon that LeBron James looked great, felt great as he went through that practice,” Charania said. “He moved well and he didn’t show signs of any issues as he’s worked through this nerve issue on his right side. 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.”

Details for NBA Today on LeBron James participating in his first full practice and five-on-five session of the Lakers season — with South Bay in the G League: pic.twitter.com/g4w79jxUaz
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) November 12, 2025

“As the Lakers move forward here, evaluating him day by day, it’s going to be about how he feels tonight, how he feels tomorrow, responding to the intensity of his first five on five, his first few practices. I would expect him to get more under his belt before he makes his debut, of course. But this now starts the process of LeBron James making a return and debut for his historic 23rd NBA season,” he concluded by saying.

Notably, James is on the verge of becoming the first player in history to play his 23rd NBA season. In the previous season, he dropped an average of 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per game while shooting 51.3% from the field and 37.6% from the three-point range. Talking about the Lakers, they have been fairing well despite missing their superstar, and are currently 8-3 in the season.

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.