sports📡 ESPNcricinfoJul 16, 2026👁 3 views

LeBron James isn’t announcing his decision… yet

LeBron James isn’t announcing his decision… yet

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 25: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on during the game against the Indiana Pacers on March 25, 2026 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Tony PestaThu, Jul 16, 2026·2 min read

The world, and Northeast Ohio, in particular, is still waiting for LeBron James to decide which NBA team he wants to play for next season. Fans were hopeful that an announcement would come today during James’ live recording of his Mind the Game podcast.

But no such decision was made.

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James almost immediately dispelled the idea that he’d be announcing the next chapter of his career. Telling Indiana Pacers’ star Tyrese Haliburton not to even ask.

Mind the Game previously announced they would be holding a live recording during the Fanatics festival in New York City. Some fans assumed that would come with a live stream of the show. They were wrong, as the episode is only being taped in front of a live audience and will be released on YouTube later.

We were all pump-faked not once, but twice.

Cavs fans aren’t alone in their wait. Patience has been key as numerous teams, including the Golden State Warriors, Philadelphia 76ers, Miami Heat, and even the Minnesota Timberwolves, cling to hope that the King will come to their city.

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James is still talented enough to warrant this level of attention. He might be the oldest player in the league, but he was playing at an All-Star level last season and is more available than many of his younger peers. Teams naturally view James as someone who can put them over the top.

Still, we all wait for something concrete to be reported. We’ve followed his trips to various golf courses. We’ve listened to local bakers and hair salons. It’s all led nowhere. James is keeping the cards close to his chest — and we aren’t even entirely sure he has made a decision up to this point.

James is also scheduled for an appearance on CNBC later today. Rich Paul will be joining him. Perhaps we get our long-awaited decision during that broadcast? Only time will tell.