LeBron James, Rich Paul pumps the brakes: “There’s no rush”

After weeks of rumors, supposed insider information and “sources close to the situation”, the person who probably knows LeBron James’ plans better than anyone has finally spoken. And his message was crystal clear: nobody knows when the decision is coming.

During the latest episode of the Game Over podcast, his agent Rich Paul addressed the endless speculation surrounding the NBA legend’s future.

We’re not going to let anyone rush us. It’s LeBron’s decision, and he’ll make it when he’s ready

Rich Paul

LeBron James has yet to decide on his next team

It’s now been three weeks since LeBron James informed the Los Angeles Lakers that he would not return for the 2026-27 season, opting instead to enter free agency ahead of what will be his historic 24th NBA season.

In the meantime, several franchises have continued making their pitch. The Miami Heat, Philadelphia 76ers, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Golden State Warriors remain among the interested teams, with the Heat, Sixers and Cavs widely viewed as the leading contenders.

According to Rich Paul, however, they’ve already done everything they needed to do.

Several executives asked me if there was anything else they could do. My answer was simple: no. Every message has been delivered. There’s nothing more that needs to be done

Rich Paul

Rich Paul shuts down every rumor

Over the past few days, reports claiming an announcement was imminent have continued to surface, but LeBron James’ agent was unequivocal.

These people don’t know anything. I’ll say it respectfully again: nobody knows anything

Rich Paul

He doubled down by explaining that even he doesn’t know the exact moment LeBron will make his choice.

He could decide in 48 seconds, 48 minutes, or sometime later. You can’t force someone to know something they haven’t figured out yet

Rich Paul

“This isn’t a show like The Decision”

Paul also dismissed any comparison to “The Decision,” the famous 2010 television special in which LeBron announced he was joining the Miami Heat.

We’re not looking for attention or putting on a show. This isn’t another ‘Decision.’ It’s a career move – a business decision

Rich Paul

According to the veteran agent, people often forget that a player has every right to take the time needed before deciding his future.

If a top executive is choosing between multiple job offers, nobody rushes him. Why should it be any different for an athlete?

Rich Paul

Even Adam Silver will have to wait

In recent days, Commissioner Adam Silver joked that he hoped LeBron would make his decision soon so the NBA could finalize next season’s schedule.

Rich Paul revealed that he has spoken directly with Silver.

We talked in New York, but the message is still the same: it’s LeBron’s decision. If he hasn’t made up his mind yet, nobody can speed up the process

Rich Paul

Rich Paul’s advice to LeBron James

Finally, the agent shared the advice he continues to give his client throughout this free agency process.

I keep telling him not to focus only on the contract. What looks perfect in July can change completely during the season. You have to evaluate the habits, the organization and the environment. There’s no such thing as a perfect situation, so it’s only right to take all the time you need

Rich Paul

One thing, however, now seems clear: despite the constant rumors, LeBron James has not yet made his decision. And, at least according to Rich Paul, anyone claiming to already know the destination or the timeline is simply guessing.