NBA Teams Use Voice Notes to Recruit LeBron James in Free Agency

10 July 2026 · Source balance: Centre

LeBron James, the 41-year-old four-time NBA champion, has left the Los Angeles Lakers and entered free agency for the first time since 2018. Multiple NBA teams including the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, Philadelphia 76ers, Golden State Warriors, and Minnesota Timberwolves are actively recruiting him. According to ESPN's Shams Charania, several teams have begun sending voice notes through James' agent Rich Paul as part of their recruitment pitches. High-ranking team executives including owners, presidents, and general managers are recording these messages. The Philadelphia 76ers appear to have gained attention by having Bob Myers, president of Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, appear on the Game Over podcast co-hosted by Rich Paul. Last season, James averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists, and 6.1 rebounds on 51.5 percent shooting. No timetable has been set for James to make his decision, and the process has stretched into its second week.