Free agent NBA star LeBron James played coy about his next career move in his first public appearance since announcing he will leave the Los Angeles Lakers. James, who joined the Lakers in 2018 and won the 2020 NBA Finals with the team, is seeking to play for one last title before retiring.
He addressed his future at Fanatics Fest in New York City on Thursday, appearing on a panel titled 'Game Plan' for CNBC Sports and Boardroom. James told the audience he "won't hold you guys up too much longer" in his decision-making process.
During the event, James hosted a live episode of his podcast, 'Mind the Game,' with co-host Tyrese Haliburton. When prompted by the crowd to "pick a team," James responded, "It's going to be fun wherever I land."
When asked by an 11-year-old about his free agency and team development, James acknowledged the significance of the decision for himself and his family. "It's a big decision for not only myself, but for my family as well," he stated. "Just for the last part of my career and where I want to spend the last few years or the last year or the last two years of my NBA career."
James emphasized his intention to integrate into any new team, bringing his extensive knowledge of the game. "I'm going to try to fit into whatever team I'm going into, but also give them all the tools and give them all the knowledge that I've been able to grasp over the last 23 years. I know the game. I know the ins and outs of the game of basketball."
While James referenced teams he has been linked with—including Cleveland, Miami, Philadelphia, and Golden State—he did not indicate a preferred destination. These teams were previously highlighted as potential landing spots by his agent, Rich Paul, in a podcast appearance two weeks prior.
James' impending move is expected to be the final chapter of his nearly 24-season career, which has made him the longest-tenured and oldest active player in league history. His aim is to secure a fifth NBA title, further solidifying his legacy and claim as the greatest player of all time.