SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 09: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers has words with a fan sitting in the front row during their game against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center on April 09, 2026 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) | Getty Images
It’s all of our biggest fear. Could LeBron James duck another return to the Cleveland Cavaliers in favor of the Golden State Warriors?
ESPN’s Shams Charania seems doubtful.
In what has been an endless loop of reporting, Charania provided yet another update on James’ desires for his next team. The latest? James is still favoring a handful of teams over the Warriors.
“[The Warriors] are, to my knowledge, behind other teams such as Miami, Cleveland, and Philadelphia,” Charania said on ESPN today.
This tracks with what we’ve previously heard. It was reported earlier this week that multiple Western Conference execs believe LeBron is headed East. Marc Stein says that many of these execs feel that Cleveland is the ‘scenario to beat’ in chasing LeBron.
That should speak for itself.
Joining the Warriors would be the most controversial thing James could do this summer (in terms of basketball). There is no other team in the association that has been a bigger rival or cost him more titles. Choosing to end his career with the franchise that will be remembered as his greatest foe would be quite the decision.
There’s natural interest in teaming up with Stephen Curry. The two were a dynamic duo in the 2024 Olympic Games and would be finishing their careers with a bang. Yet, that scenario feels like something you’d accept in NBA 2K. Not real life. Most fans outside of California would feel conflicted watching James in a Golden State jersey.
James wouldn’t face much backlash if he joined any other team. He already has a relationship with Miami and there’s relatively zero animosity between him and Philadelphia. Both fan bases would welcome him with open arms, and neutral fans would mostly accept his decision.
Of course, Cleveland is the overwhelming favorite from a narrative perspective. Call me biased — but I don’t see how a final homecoming can be topped by any other scenario. This is the storybook ending that’s been discussed for years.
We won’t know the answer for some time still. Though James recently promised that he wouldn’t leave us hanging much longer. Until then, we can only scroll social media and wait for more updates.
Los Angeles’ crosstown rivalry reignited Tuesday about 300 miles away from their respective arenas.
A potential highlight transition dunk from Adou Thiero turned into a hard foul, deemed reckless enough to be upgraded to a flagrant. Some extra pushing and shoving followed, resulting in technicals.
Thiero and the Summer League Lakers brushed off the mini scuffle and went on to win their fifth straight game, including three in a row to remain undefeated in Las Vegas. The purple and gold’s 36th overall pick from a year ago finished with 13 points, six rebounds, a steal and a block in 27 minutes.
As has been the case all summer, the numbers don’t do justice to the impact of his athletic force on both ends of the floor. With the Lakers roster clearly devoid of athletic wings, it gives way for Thiero to make his case for a real potential spot on the floor.
Even while entering only 25 games last year due to injuries, Thiero has played 100 more minutes than the next-closest player on the Summer League roster. In this summer exhibition environment, experienced second-year players are relied on to lead their teams.
On offense, there’s not much coloring outside the lines. It’s a simple but effective diet of relentless drives to the basket as he’s determined to get downhill with force at any opportunity. Without many playmakers to accompany him, Thiero is relied on as a main creator to manufacture paint touches and kickouts. In Vegas, he’s second on the team in assists.
He’s oscillated between being a screener and operating in the short roll and running actions as the ball handler, as shown below. Watch as he gets a ghost screen from fellow summer standout Cameron Carr. A bump of the shoulder sends his defender flying before he dips into his bag for a hard gather crossover finish at the basket.
These drives and paint touches collapse the defense, creating ample opportunities to be a playmaker. After a few rough games in the California Classic while getting his feet under him, Thiero’s shown much better poise on his drives. Rather than force off-balance shots at the rim, he opted to find teammates for kick-out threes or cutters at the rim.
His downhill force and highlight-dunk finishing ability have teams walling off the paint against him. Watch below as he comes off a screen action in the corner, splits the defense with an under-control spin and flings the pass back out for a wide open 3-pointer.
Where he’s unstoppable is on the break and it’s not hyperbole to say Thiero is the best transition athlete currently on the Lakers. Listed at 6’5, 220 pounds, he walks around with a trampoline to launch from for lobs and thunderous dunks.
Watch below as the Lakers force a turnover and Thiero acts as the trailer in the play. Once he gets momentum going downhill, the seas part and he finishes with a powerful slam.
As with any young player on a team hoping to be in contention, Thiero’s minutes will be determined by his ability to lock in on the defensive end. Projecting him into the Lakers’ rotation, his potential as a predator on defense is an enticing fit.
His five steals in Vegas leads the team, picking players from behind with great hands and turnovers with ball pressure. Offensive players have even chosen to avoid attacking him, moving the ball or calling for a screen to switch to a different defender.
The Arkansas product has used his athletic powers to recover for some impressive chase-down blocks. Watch below as the offensive player hears footsteps and gets engulfed at the apex of his jump. Thiero goes up with two hands, prepared for the takeaway on either side.
His three blocks in Vegas are second behind center Anton Watson.
Thiero is still a very raw prospect in many aspects, evidenced by his refusal to take any shot outside the paint. The drives toe the line between force and recklessness, showing a clear need for development in reading the defense and improved spatial awareness. Athletic advantages won’t be as pronounced against NBA competition, and, as with most young players, his defensive focus on and off the ball can fade in interest.
With all that being said, the Lakers are starved for uber-athletic wings to pair around Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves, as proven by reports of interest in potentially adding Jonathan Kuminga and signing Ziaire Williams to a minimum contract.
Barring a carryover of health issues from last season, Thiero’s two-way athletic profile provides a hopeful road map to a run at minutes next season in year two.
LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 14: Chaney Johnson #31 of the Brooklyn Nets drives to the basket during the game against the Sacramento Kings on July 14, 2026 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Stephen Greathouse/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Well, that was fun! The Nets absolutely dominated on Tuesday with a 115-83 victory against the Kings. It was arguably the best we’ve seen the Flatbush Five play together, and certainly the best Brooklyn has played this summer. And that’s saying something.
They’ll move onto face the Houston Rockets in their final pool play match of Las Vegas NBA Summer League. There are 12 teams competing 12 for four semifinal spots, meaning the might or might not be the last game for another 3+ months. Enjoy!
📺 Watch
Watch: YES Network, Gotham Sports, ESPNU
Who: Nets vs. Rockets
When: Tip after 4:30 PM
💬 Discussion
Share your thoughts and react, but please be respectful. NetsDaily prides itself on being a safe space for Nets and basketball fans alike to have healthy conversation. Reach out to Anthony Puccio or Net Income with any issues.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JULY 16: LeBron James speaks onstage during the mind the game panel at Fanatics Fest NYC 2026 at Jacob Javits Center on July 16, 2026 in New York City. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Fanatics) | Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Fan
Despite what most people expected when the summer began, LeBron James’ free agency has been the biggest storyline of the 2026 NBA offseason. James delivered a shocker at the beginning of the free agency period, announcing that he would not be returning to the Los Angeles Lakers. For the fourth time in his historic career, the league’s all-time leading scorer will hand pick his next home.
There are a lot of intriguing options. While James has been linked to about a third of the league’s teams, the rumors have persisted about four enticing options: a third stint with his hometown Cleveland Cavaliers, bookending his career with a return home to team with Donovan Mitchell, James Harden, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen; a second stint with the Miami Heat, where he won half of his four NBA championships, and a chance to join Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo; a surprising pivot to the Philadelphia 76ers, who suddenly have a tremendous core of Tyrese Maxey, Jaylen Brown, Joel Embiid, and V.J. Edgecombe; and, of course, a link up with his long-time frenemies Steph Curry and Draymond Green with the Golden State Warriors.
It’s entirely unclear where the Warriors stand. Most of the reports have suggested that they’re a secondary option behind that trio of competitors, but a few hints and rumors seem to suggest that the Dubs have a good chance. Many of the prediction markets have shifted to the Warriors being favorites, and while I despite those things with a passion, such shifts are often due to some sort of insider information.
And then there are the little bits and pieces that probably mean nothing but we all overanalyze just in case. On Wednesday, Warriors coach Steve Kerr playfully told Warriors fans, “We got him” when asked at a red light about signing James. At roughly the same time, a Pardon the Interruption podcast was mistakenly released with the title, “Steph Curry Behind LeBron’s Stunning Decision?”
These things mean, almost certainly, nothing. It’s deeply improbably that Kerr or ESPN would have this information before James reveals it. Kerr’s soundbite was almost certainly just a playful and lighthearted joke, while ESPN’s faux pas was most likely a pre-written headline that was accidentally published instead of staying in the batter’s box for if it was needed.
One thing is certain: as silly and entertaining as all these rumors, reports, and conspiracy theories are, it will be a breath of fresh air when they’re finished. And it seems like we’re nearing that moment, according to the man himself.
James was in New York on Thursday for Fanatics Fest to speak at the Game Plan Summit, presented by CNBC and Boardroom (the latter being Kevin Durant’s media company). The 22-time All-Star was a scheduled speaker along with other industry titans such as Durant, Adam Silver, Cathy Engelbert, Diana Taurasi, Dana White, Elle Duncan, Michael Rubin, Rich Kleiman, Lindsey Vonn, and Jimmy Pitaro. While speaking during a panel, James hinted at a timeline for his decision, saying simply, “I won’t hold you guys up too much longer.”
The four-time MVP didn’t offer any hints as to where he would land, but did express excitement and optimism, saying, “Looking forward to what’s next as I wind down the final stages of my journey … It’s going to be pretty fun wherever I land. I’m going to do what I do best.”
Of course, “much longer” isn’t exactly a firm date, so who knows. We may still be doing this song and dance when the calendar rolls into August. It will all be worth it for one franchise, at least…
BOSTON, MA - MARCH 16: The sneakers worn by Devin Booker #1 of the Phoenix Suns during the game against the Boston Celtics on March 16, 2026 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Charania appeared on an episode of ESPN’s “Pat McAfee Show” on Thursday and said, “I don’t know if I’m holding my breath for an announcement this week.” He added that he believes the process is “getting closer and closer to the end.”
ESPN insider Shams Charania said LeBron James has narrowed his list. NBAE via Getty Images
Charania then spoke about how three to five NBA owners have sent voice memos to James’ agent Rich Paul, who has then sent these voice memos to James.
“We’re looking at a group of teams: the Cavs, the Heat, the Warriors, the Sixers and the Timberwolves. But my feel, when I talk to teams around the league … the focus is really on the top contending teams for this being the Cavaliers, the Heat and the 76ers,” Charania added.
LeBron James was mum Thursday about his plans. JASON SZENES/ NY POST
"I think as we get into next week LeBron James is getting closer and closer to making a decision..
McAfee quickly noted that Charania left out the Warriors during this comment, to which Charania said, “I don’t think I did. Did I?” He clarified his report to “throw [the Warriors] in there.”
Therefore, it seems like James’ ultimate decision has been narrowed to the four teams Charania mentioned, while the Timberwolves are still involved. This means the Nuggets, who looked to be a potential landing spot for James earlier this month, are all but out of the running.
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LeBron James celebrated winning the 2020 NBA championship with the Lakers. USA TODAY Sports
James didn’t announce his decision during his live taping of the “Mind the Game” podcast at Fanatics Fest on Thursday.
Assuming he doesn’t do so at the Game Plan Summit event presented by CNBC and Boardroom later Thursday, fans might have to wait until the weekend to find out which team James decides to join for his 24th NBA season.
LeBron James to the Golden State Warriors has been a rising topic in recent days. Betting odds have turned in their favor, anonymous NBA executives think it's a natural fit too, Steph Curry's making pitches at celebrity golf events, and even Steve Kerr jokingly acknowledged all the headlines by telling a fan "We got him," at a stoplight.
But despite all the momentum seemingly pointing towards the Bay Area, ESPN's Shams Charania poured cold water on that sentiment in his latest report.
During a segment on the "Pat McAfee Show" on Thursday, Charania asserted his belief that the Warriors are behind the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat and Philadelphia 76ers as contenders to sign the league's all-time leading scorer.
"The issue I think with LeBron James, when you look at that team with the Warriors: if he's there, is that team good enough?" Charania said. "I think that's the big question. … If you add LeBron James to the Cavaliers, that's a hole at the three position that they need. You add him to the Sixers, he slides right into the starting lineup. That's a contender. Cavs, contender. Heat, complete contender the moment he gets there.
"The Warriors would need a little bit of work still."
“To my knowledge, the Warriors are behind the Cavs, Heat and 76ers right now,” - @ShamsCharania with the least on the teams trying to get LeBron James. pic.twitter.com/8czE9HGOOQ
Golden State's original plan this offseason was reportedly to sign James and make a trade with the Washington Wizards for Anthony Davis, reuniting the Los Angeles Lakers' 2020 championship duo and pairing them alongside Curry to give their star one last serious push for a fifth NBA title.
That fell apart when the Wizards made it clear they have no interest in sending Davis anywhere, leaving Mike Dunleavy and co. to continue their pursuit of James singularly.
That, Charania says, keeps the Warriors from being true contenders even if they sign James and what ultimately pushes them back in the running for his services.
"So far, we're 16 days into July and there's been no real traction on any trade conversation the Warriors have had on AD or any other star," he told McAfee. "... The Sixers literally got on the map the moment they got Jaylen Brown. They were not even in the picture. Such as goes to show, you make moves, you can get LeBron James's attention especially in this free agency."
James did a live podcast of "Mind the Game" with Tyrese Haliburton at Fanatics Fest in New York but avoided showing any signs of which way he might be leaning on his looming decision.
Calling Gary Trent Jr.'s new contract "suspicious" is an understatement. Talking to team executives (and pretty much everyone else) at Las Vegas Summer League, it was fairly obvious what had led to Gary Trent Jr.'s four-year, $64 million contract with Milwaukee: This was pre-arranged. The 27-year-old wing played on a minimum-salary contract for two years, and once the Bucks had his Early Bird Rights, they "made him whole" with an unexpectedly large new contract. This was the payoff.
Except that would violate the CBA and be salary cap circumvention, and the NBA is now looking into the contract, a league source confirmed to NBC Sports.
Trent Jr. had played on a three-year, $52 million contract from 2021 to the summer of 2024, when he suddenly agreed to join Giannis Antetokounmpo in Milwaukee and play for the minimum. Last season, he was on another minimum contract and regressed on the court under Doc Rivers, averaging 8.1 points per game on 38.7% shooting.
Then, suddenly, he gets handed a full mid-level exception contract starting at $15 million a season, fully guaranteed for four years? This contract became the talk of the Las Vegas Summer League the second it was announced.
In breaking the news of the deal, ESPN's Shams Charania said another team had inquired about a sign-and-trade for roughly the same number financially, and if true, the Bucks could argue they were just paying the market rate. However, there are no public details about that other team or their alleged offer.
Would another NBA team file a complaint about this contract, forcing the league to formally investigate? For one, this kind of under-the-table agreement is not uncommon in the NBA, it's usually just not so blatant. There will be a desire by some front offices to just ignore this so they don't raise any red flags. Second, as multiple people pointed out to NBC Sports, the worst punishment for Milwaukee would be to carry what is a bad contract.
It's going to be something to monitor over the coming weeks. The Bucks are stacked at that on the wing, with Tyler Herro, Caris LeVert, Jamie Jaquiez Jr. and just drafted Brayden Burries, who has looked pretty good at Summer League, and now Trent Jr.
Dec 20, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Kentucky Wildcats forward Jayden Quaintance (21) shows emotion against the St. John Red Storm in the second half at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images | Brett Davis-Imagn Images
Jayden Quaintance and injuries have unfortunately gone hand in hand in recent years. Now, Quaintance is coming off a successful surgery to clean up his right knee, and is a little over a year removed from his ACL surgery.
The San Antonio Spurs announced the positive news on Wednesday.
Quaintance went through extensive rehab before, during, and after his commitment to Kentucky Basketball. Big Blue Nation knows all too well about the process to get him back last year, with the highly anticipated superstar going through a ton to get back.
Now, in the NBA, he is still going through some difficulties in getting back to game-ready. The Spurs drafted Quaintance No. 20 overall, and they knew that with that pick, another surgery would come in the near future. The Spurs, of anyone, could afford that, though. The Spurs are coming off a year in which they reached the NBA Finals, and have a super young team overall.
When Quaintance was drafted, Spurs fans who didn’t know him or his story were extremely excited about the selection after seeing the highlights. When Quaintance is healthy and honestly just playing on the court, he makes an unbelievable impact on the game.
Back in high school, Quaintance was a 5-star prospect and one of the best defensive prospects we had seen in recent years. Then, in college, his game translated right away. At Arizona State, he averaged 9.4 points per game, 7.9 rebounds per game and 3.7 stocks (steals and blocks) per game. The end of his freshman season at Arizona State and his year at Kentucky have been riddled with injuries, setting him back.
Sadly, more rehab is in store for Quaintance, but as I mentioned before, there’s not a ton of weight on his shoulders of expectations for him to come in and save an organization or anything like that.
Best wishes to Quaintance as we hope for a speedy recovery.
Jayden Quaintance will miss the start of the 2026-27 NBA season and the early expectation from the Spurs is that he won't be ready to return until some point in 2027, sources told @ClutchPoints.
It's hard to pinpoint an exact return timeline, but he is sidelined indefinitely. https://t.co/PROOVhi6dS
LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 15: Aday Mara #15 of the Oklahoma City Thunder and Sergio De Larrea of the Dallas Mavericks poses for a portrait during the 2026 NBA Rookie Photo Shoot on July 15, 2026 at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas campus in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The Dallas Mavericks play on Thursday afternoon at 3pm on Amazon Prime against the Summer Oklahoma City Thunder. Honestly, I forgot about this game, regular work day and all for me, and I suspect most Mavs fans won’t be catching this one either. But in case you do, here’s a discussion board:
WHO: Dallas Mavericks vs Oklahoma City Thunder
WHAT: NBA Summer League, Game 4 for Dallas
WHERE: Thomas & Mack Center, Las Vegas, Nevada
WHEN: 3:00 pm CST
HOW: Amazon Prime
I have no idea who isn’t playing. I hope Morez Johnson does but calf injuries are serious.
The Grizzlies game was fun. Here’s hoping this one is too. How’s that for a game preview. If any of the guys drafted in Dallas plays, then that’s a good thing. We want to see them play basketball.
PARIS, FRANCE - AUGUST 8: Lebron James (6) of Team United States shakes hands with head coach Steve Kerr at the end of the Men's Basketball semifinal game between United States and Serbia at Bercy Arena during the Paris 2024 Olympics on August 8, 2024. (Photo by Toni L. Sandys/The Washington Post via Getty Images)
The LeBron James saga has dragged on for a few weeks now, and it’s not clear if it will end anytime soon. Depending on which reports you believe, the Golden State Warriors are either the favorites to land the 22-time All-Star and four-time MVP, or well on the outside looking in.
You might be stressed about it. But one person apparently isn’t: Steve Kerr.
In inimitable Kerr fashion, the Warriors head coach has taken a playful attitude with the swirling attention and uncertainty. On Wednesday, some fans uploaded a social media post interacting with Kerr while he was at a stoplight. With his window down, Kerr waived and smiled at the fans. A fan then comments that the Dubs need to get LeBron, to which Kerr smirks and responds, “Oh, we got him. Put that on Twitter.” The light then turns green and the Warriors’ coach drives away.
It’s worth noting, in this world of AI slop, that it’s a real video. According to The Athletic’s Nick Friedell and Devon Henderson, Warriors executives have confirmed that it’s a real video. It’s even more important to note, of course, that this is almost certainly just Kerr being the lighthearted, silly, don’t take things too seriously self. James has yet to reveal where he’ll play and, per numerous reports, has not informed any team executives of his line of thinking. Even if James has made a decision (and it’s not clear that he has), Kerr almost surely has not been informed of it … and if he had, he certainly wouldn’t be breaking the news to fans at a stoplight.
Still, if you’re grasping at straws looking for reasons to be optimistic about James partnering with Steph Curry and Draymond Green, well … these things are fun and exciting, even if ultimately probably meaningless.
LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 15: Tobi Lawal, Morez Johnson Jr. and Sergio De Larrea of the Dallas Mavericks poses for a portrait during the 2026 NBA Rookie Photo Shoot on July 15, 2026 at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas campus in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NBA. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Mavs fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.
Let us know, we’ll talk more about it this week or weekend.
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 25: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on during the game against the Indiana Pacers on March 25, 2026 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The world, and Northeast Ohio, in particular, is still waiting for LeBron James to decide which NBA team he wants to play for next season. Fans were hopeful that an announcement would come today during James’ live recording of his Mind the Game podcast.
But no such decision was made.
James almost immediately dispelled the idea that he’d be announcing the next chapter of his career. Telling Indiana Pacers’ star Tyrese Haliburton not to even ask.
Tyrese Haliburton attempted to ask LeBron James about his decision early on in the program and James did not bite, saying “didn’t we already talk about this in the back.” Haliburton acquiesced and said, “I’ll leave it alone.”
Mind the Game previously announced they would be holding a live recording during the Fanatics festival in New York City. Some fans assumed that would come with a live stream of the show. They were wrong, as the episode is only being taped in front of a live audience and will be released on YouTube later.
We were all pump-faked not once, but twice.
Cavs fans aren’t alone in their wait. Patience has been key as numerous teams, including the Golden State Warriors, Philadelphia 76ers, Miami Heat, and even the Minnesota Timberwolves, cling to hope that the King will come to their city.
James is still talented enough to warrant this level of attention. He might be the oldest player in the league, but he was playing at an All-Star level last season and is more available than many of his younger peers. Teams naturally view James as someone who can put them over the top.
Still, we all wait for something concrete to be reported. We’ve followed his trips to various golf courses. We’ve listened to local bakers and hair salons. It’s all led nowhere. James is keeping the cards close to his chest — and we aren’t even entirely sure he has made a decision up to this point.
James is also scheduled for an appearance on CNBC later today. Rich Paul will be joining him. Perhaps we get our long-awaited decision during that broadcast? Only time will tell.
While Kerr’s comments clearly appeared to be made tongue-in-cheek, the three-word comment went viral on social media, with some fans taking these comments as proof that LeBron will be taking his talents to the San Francisco Bay Area to end his legendary NBA career.
Steve Kerr looks on during a Golden State Warriors game. San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images
However, ESPN insider Brian Windhorst poured cold water on this belief during a Thursday appearance on “ESPN First Take”.
“I’m sure that’s the way the news is gonna come out, Steve Kerr at a stoplight,” Windhorst said sarcastically when asked about the coach’s comment.
Windhorst then added, “I do not expect LeBron to announce where he’s going today. I could be wrong… But I have a lot that I want to hear from LeBron today. And what I’m hoping is that I’ll be better able to answer this question, after he has this discussion.”
Brian Windhorst speaks during a segment at the 2026 NBA Draft. NBAE via Getty Images
Windhorst is referring to LeBron’s appearance at Fanatics Fest in New York City’s Javits Center on Thursday.
James and Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton are sitting down for a live taping of the “Mind the Game” podcast on Thursday, and many believed LeBron would be announcing his free agency decision during the podcast.
However, LeBron made it clear early during the taping that he did not intend to announce his decision.
LeBron James looks on from the bench during the Paris 2024 Olympics. Best Image / BACKGRID
Windhorst then added that nobody, including the teams who are expected to be potential landing spots for James, know what his decision will be, nor when he’ll make it.
Regardless, LeBron isn’t going to let Steve Kerr steal his shine.
LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 14: Mikel Brown Jr. #0 of the Brooklyn Nets shoots the ball during the game against the Sacramento Kings on July 14, 2026 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Stephen Greathouse/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images LAS VEGAS, NV – JULY 14: Mikel Brown Jr. #0 of the Brooklyn Nets shoots the ball during the game against the Sacramento Kings on July 14, 2026 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Stephen Greathouse/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Back in the win column. The Nets cruised to a 115-83 victory over the Kings on Monday afternoon in Las Vegas. It was a particularly good game for the starting lineup, all who scored in double digits on better than 52 percent shooting. The Nets looked like the better team on both ends of the ball and that’s a major nod to coach Dutch Gaitley.
Watch
Watch: YES Network, Gotham Sports, ESPNU.
Who: Nets vs. Rockets
When: Tip after 4:30 PM.
The Game
The Nets played some of their best ball all summer against the Kings on Tuesday, and that includes the California Classic. The ball was swinging around the perimeter, players were diving after loose balls, and they simply manhandled a clearly weaker Kings team. Summer League can only be taken so serious, but this was a huge step in the right direction for the BK guys. We’ll see if the main attractions suit up in this one.
Otherwise, Egor Dëmin is offering plenty of optimism. He had a decent rookie season before being shut down and is excelling in Summer League.
“It’s time I fill out an apology form on Egor Demin. Ahead of the 2025 NBA Draft, I named Demin one of the most overrated prospects in the class, and gave the Nets a D for his selection at No. 8 overall in my instant grades. My main arguments against Demin were that I didn’t think he could score efficiently inside or outside the arc, and I didn’t think he had the frame to play through contact on either end. Well! Demin massively improved as a shooter as a rookie, going from 27 percent from three and 69 percent from the foul line in college to 38.5 percent from three and 83.1 percent on free throws as a rookie. A year in an NBA strength and conditioning program helped his body quite a bit too, and he continues to show the gains he’s made during summer league. Demin scored 20 or more points in all three of his summer league games this year on 61 percent true shooting. He looks improved attacking the basket off the bounce, and he’s showing he can hit the defensive glass, too. The Nets have done a really good job developing Demin’s frame, and it’s paying off on both ends. Demin deserves a lot of credit himself for putting in the work to improve his jumper. I’m happy to be wrong about this one because Demin is a cool player with a fun skill set who should be a nice piece in Brooklyn’s rebuild for a long time.“
As the Nets continue their rebuild, young players exceeding expectations will go a long way in helping them get back to where they want to be. As Demin continues to get stronger and gain professional experience, his game will continue to progress and reach higher heights.
Player to watch: Mikel Brown Jr
Assuming he plays…
It’s been a fun summer for the newest Net. Over his first two games, Mikel Brown Jr is averaging 18 points and four assists on .522/.455/1.000 shooting splits. In addition to those numbers, the kid has put forth plenty of exciting moments that have Nets fans excited for what’s to come
Mikel Brown Jr. picks Darius Acuff's pocket in transition, then crosses him over and hits the pull-up middy. pic.twitter.com/jSew2VIVfo
Brown Jr has been one of the more pleasant surprises coming out of Summer League and is a player that has drawn tons of praise across the basketball landscape this month. Another good outing will only add to his run and help build anticipation as we transition into the Fall.
From the Vault
I’m always down to watch some random Hakeem Olajuwon highlights
