Rich Paul on LeBron James’ free agency decision: ‘Nobody knows nothing’

By Michael Carter — 21 July 2026 — 3 min read

James’ Agent Addresses Speculation

Rich Paul, agent for LeBron James, stated that no one outside of James himself knows when the basketball superstar will make his free agency decision. Paul made these comments during the latest episode of his podcast, Game Over, with co-host Max Kellerman. He emphasized that reports circulating about James’ decision timeline are inaccurate.

Paul specifically dismissed a report suggesting James would announce his decision within 48 hours. He clarified that the timing is unknown, stating, “I don’t know when his next choice is going to be made. It could be 48 seconds, it could be 48 minutes. I don’t know.”

It has been three weeks since James informed the Los Angeles Lakers that he would not be returning to the team, making him a free agent for the first time in eight years. This move has led to considerable speculation regarding his next team.

No Rush for a Business Choice

Paul stressed that James’ decision is a business choice and that they are not going to be rushed into making it. He reiterated this point multiple times, stating, “We’re not going to be rushed. It’s his choice to make, and when he makes the choice, he’ll make it.”

The agent also indicated that teams interested in James do not need to provide additional information. He mentioned receiving calls from teams asking if they should be doing more, to which his answer was, “No. We don’t need you to go above and beyond about anything. We understand it. It’s clear. All the messages have been sent.”

Paul addressed the perception that James is intentionally drawing out the process to create a spectacle, similar to his 2010 televised announcement known as “The Decision.” He asserted that this is not the case, explaining, “I think it’s important for people to understand: We’re not making this about attention and a spectacle. It’s not about a ‘decision’ or anything like that. He has a choice to make. He has a business choice to make.”

Potential destinations for James include former teams like the Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat, as well as other franchises such as the Golden State Warriors and Philadelphia 76ers.

Discussions with NBA Commissioner

The ongoing free agency decision has also been a topic of discussion with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. Silver had previously expressed a desire for James to make his announcement soon, so the league could finalize its national television schedule.

Paul confirmed he spoke with Silver in New York about the situation. He reiterated to Silver that the timing of the decision remains James’ choice, stating, “I saw Adam in New York, and we discussed it. And like I said, it’s still his choice. So if he doesn’t really know, you can’t rush it. You can’t rush it.”

Despite the scrutiny and calls for a swift decision, Paul maintained that James, who averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists, and 6.1 rebounds in 60 games with the Lakers, will take his time. His career averages stand at 26.8 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 7.4 assists across a record 1,622 games with three teams.

James himself briefly commented on the situation during a public appearance in New York last week, saying, “I won’t hold you guys up too much longer.”

Source: sports.yahoo.com