LeBron James was back at Fanatics Fest for another live podcast on Friday afternoon and he got some people very excited. During a live version of The Shop, he said that he’s looking for a franchise that is “trusting the process.” This perked up many ears in the room as “trust the process” is the phrase that has long been associated with the Philadelphia 76ers.
For a brief moment everyone thought he gave away his decision as the crowd interrupted him with loud noises. James looked around, confused for a brief moment before he figured out what had happened. Then to the disappointment of all the 76ers fans in the room, he insisted that he had been saying that since he was drafted.
LeBron James said he wants to go to a franchise that “trusts the process.”👀
The crowd absolutely lit up and LeBron responded that he’s been saying “trust the process” since he was drafted in 2003. 😂
He clarified it was NOT a hint that he’s going to the Philadelphia 76ers. pic.twitter.com/My7GKAbpGR
— Anthony Rivardo (@Anthony_Rivardo) July 17, 2026
MORE: Adam Silver urges LeBron James to make his decision sooner than later
As LeBron James rattles off what he will value in his next team, he used the phrase “trust the process” and the crowd was sent into a tizzy, thinking he was giving a clue about the Philadelphia 76ers. pic.twitter.com/klpBWePWNq
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) July 17, 2026
On Thursday James did a live edition of “Mind the Game” with Tyrese Haliburton. The Pacers’ star tried to get James to reveal whether he had made his decision, but he shut him down. Suddenly, it seems like LeBron James is not going to announce his free agency decision on a podcast.
And so we wait. Anytime now. No rush. It’s just that the entire damn league is waiting to do anything until James announces his decision.