LeBron James Says Free-Agency Decision Is Close After Informing Lakers of Departure

LeBron James appeared publicly in New York on July 16 without naming his next NBA team. ESPN reported that the 41-year-old informed the Los Angeles Lakers more than two weeks earlier through his agent Rich Paul that he would leave via free agency. James spoke at a live taping of his "Mind the Game" podcast at Fanatics Fest inside the Javits Center before a crowd of about 5,000 people.

Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton served as guest co-host. James told the audience that revealing his destination was not on the agenda. Later the same day at the CNBC and Boardroom Game Plan Summit, James signaled that a decision was close.

"I won't hold you guys up too much longer," he said. Haliburton recalled texting James about a month earlier to offer that the two could "make something crack" if James joined the Pacers. James replied with two laughing and crying emojis.

Haliburton had led the Pacers to the 2025 NBA Finals before tearing his right Achilles in Game 7 and missing the entire 2025-26 season. Sources told ESPN that the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, Philadelphia 76ers and Golden State Warriors remain among the teams pursuing James.

During the podcast, James noted that this marks the fourth time he has entered free agency and said he would bring leadership and 23 years of experience to his next team.