LeBron James Makes Unfortunate Announcement on Monday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Cole Sullivan | Last updated May 5, 2025 1:23 PM ET

The Los Angeles Lakers' season came to an end last Wednesday following a Game 5 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves. During the defeat, LeBron James suffered a Grade 2 MCL sprain after a collision with Donte DiVincenzo — an injury that typically requires a 3-to-5 week recovery period and would have sidelined him for any potential upcoming games.

With the offseason now underway, James was scheduled to make a high-profile appearance on Monday night at the 2025 Met Gala in New York City, where he was named one of the event's co-chairs — a role that would have marked his first-ever appearance at the iconic fashion event during his NBA career.

However, just hours before the Met Gala, James announced via social media that he would no longer be able to attend due to his knee injury. Instead, his wife, Savannah James, will represent the James family in his absence.

"Unfortunately because of my knee injury I sustained at the end of the season I won’t be able to attend the Met Gala in NY tonight as so many people have been asking and congratulating me on!" James said. "Hate to miss an historical event! My beautiful powerful Queen will be there holding the castle down as she always has done!"

Unfortunately because of my knee injury I sustained at the end of the season I won’t be able to attend the Met Gala in NY tonight as so many people have been asking and congratulating me on! Hate to miss an historical event! My beautiful powerful Queen will be there holding the…
— LeBron James (@KingJames) May 5, 2025

Fans reacted to the news:

"Thought this was a retirement post, I was finna break up with my girl," a fan said.

"Bro chill i thought you were announcing your retirement," another fan posted.

"Heal up quick, King! Your presence will be missed," someone else added.

One more fan commented, "Omg you scared me for a sec I thought this was something else."

The Met Gala always draws a star-studded crowd, and anticipation for LeBron James’ appearance had been building for months, especially after he was announced as one of the event’s key guests.

However, at 40 years old, recovery from injury remains a top priority. While James hasn’t made any official announcements about the future of his playing career, all indications suggest he’s preparing to return for his 23rd NBA season — potentially alongside his son, Bronny, and Lakers franchise star Luka Doncic.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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