With LeBron James still yet to announce his next destination, Mario Hezonja remains stuck in his hope of making a comeback to join an NBA team.
Apparently, Mario Hezonja is also one of the players significantly affected by LeBron James' ongoing free agency situation.
Mario Hezonja
Position SF
Age 31
Height 206 cm
Weight 110 kg
Birth place Dubrovnik, Croatia
According to ESPN's Shams Charania on The Pat McAfee Show, James' continued delay in announcing his next NBA team is holding up Hezonja's anticipated return to the league, as several teams interested in the Croatian star are still waiting for the four-time MVP to make his decision.
"There's a guy abroad right now by the name of Mario Hezonja. He's coming from the EuroLeague back to the NBA. He was a high draft pick several years ago. He is being held up by LeBron James," the NBA insider said.
"So, LeBron James is not only holding up customs, he's holding up business because Mario is waiting. There's a few of these teams, whether it's Golden State, whether it's Cleveland, etc., that are just waiting on LeBron James to make a decision. LeBron James is very cognizant of that, I'm sure."
Mario Hezonja waiting for LeBron James next NBA team decision
BasketNews first reported that Mario Hezonja is strongly considering an NBA comeback after his July 20 opt-out deadline in his contract with Real Madrid.
While Hezonja is under contract with Real Madrid through 2029, his deal contains a clause that would allow him to leave for the NBA.
Hezonja, who is the No. 5 pick of the 2015 NBA Draft by the Orlando Magic, built a stellar career overseas upon leaving the league in 2020. He led Real Madrid to the 2023 EuroLeague championship.
The 31-year-old averaged 17.5 points and 4.9 rebounds in 47.7% shooting for the Spanish club in the previous 2025-26 season across 31 appearances, securing Liga ACB MVP honors.
Hezonja was previously linked to the Cleveland Cavaliers, a prominent team that remains in the hunt to sign LeBron James.
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