Free agent NBA legend LeBron James played coy when asked about his future after leaving the Los Angeles Lakers at the end of the season.
James had been with the Lakers since 2018 and won the 2020 NBA Finals with the team, but has now decided to move on in an attempt to play for one last title.
He made his first public appearance since that announcement at Fanatics Fest in New York City on Thursday on a panel for CNBC Sports and Boardroom titled ‘Game Plan’.
In that appearance, James promised the audience and NBA fans that he ‘won’t hold you guys up too much longer’ when it comes to choosing his next team.
James then went on to host a live episode of his ‘Mind the Game’ podcast alongside co-host Tyrese Haliburton. A packed audience watching on clamored for James to ‘pick a team’ to play for.
‘It’s going to be fun wherever I land,’ James replied.
LeBron James remained coy about his future in a public appearance at Fanatics Fest Thursday
James is leaving the Los Angeles Lakers after joining the team back in 2018 and winning a title
He was repeatedly asked about future destinations, but didn’t reveal or hint at anything
James was asked by an 11-year-old about his free agency and developing his next team, to which the ‘King’ gave him props for ‘a hell of a question’.
‘It’s a big decision for not only myself, but for my family as well,’ James said. ‘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 added, ‘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.’
During the appearance, James referenced many teams he’s been connected with – including Cleveland, Miami, Philadelphia and Golden State – but did not hint to which one was his preferred spot.
Those were all spots his agent, Rich Paul, highlighted as possible destinations in a podcast appearance nearly two weeks ago.
Wherever he goes, it will likely be the last team James plays for as his career approaches 24 seasons. He is the longest tenured player in league history and is currently its oldest active player.
James’ move will be an attempt to win a fifth NBA title to add to his legacy and further his case for being the greatest professional basketball player of all time.
