LeBron James Pulls Out of 2025 Met Gala Amid Knee Injury, Retirement Rumors Surface

LeBron James, the iconic 40-year-old NBA player, has announced that he will not attend the 2025 Met Gala due to a knee injury he sustained in Game 5 of the Western Conference first-round series against the Minnesota Timberwolves. The injury occurred when Timberwolves’ guard Donte DiVincenzo collided with James’ knee during a screen play. Though James briefly exited the game, he later returned to finish the match, which the Lakers ultimately lost 103-96, ending their playoff hopes.

James had been scheduled as an honorary chair for the event, but he confirmed that his wife, Savannah, would be attending in his place. The injury raised questions about James’ future, but the Lakers are hopeful that he will continue playing for at least another season, making it his eighth with the team. James, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer with 42,184 points, played 70 games during the 2024-25 season, averaging 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists. His current contract includes a $52.6 million player option for the next season, sparking rumors about his potential retirement.