LeBron James dropped a "trust the process" mention during his second day of media activity in New York City at Fanatics Fest.
To no surprise, the crowd took it as a hint that the superstar forward was gearing up to choose the Philadelphia 76ers as his next destination. When the crowd simmered down, James made sure to clarify that he had been utilizing that phrase long before Joel Embiid repped it on the Sixers.
"I've been saying 'trust the process' since I was drafted in like 2003," James told the crowd. "I don't even think [Joel] Embiid was even born yet."
A "trust the process" mention from LeBron James when discussing his decision.
— Underdog NBA (@UnderdogNBA) July 17, 2026
Crowd goes wild, LeBron clarifies that he's been saying that phrase since before Joel Embiid was born.pic.twitter.com/mxfFQNgwwh
Shortly after, James was begged for an answer on his future--and once again--the Hall of Famer made it clear that his free agency decision isn't made.
"We do not have an announcement to make just yet," he told a disappointed NYC crowd.
The Sixers are still hopeful
Lakers insider at ESPN Dave McMenamin joined Philadelphia's 97.5 The Fanatic station on Friday, July 17, to issue the latest details on the LeBron situation.
The insider made it clear that while there is belief that LeBron is "nearing" a decision, it likely won't come until next week at the earliest. As for a Sixers-related update, they haven't given up.
"I do believe, strongly, that the Sixers are a legitimate option for him still. I was told, as of last night, he still hasn't made his final decision," McMenamin said on the air.
"[The Sixers] really believe they have a legitimate pitch to him. If it is about winning a championship, [LeBron] can win here... They don't feel like they are out."
Fortunately for the Sixers, they aren't missing much while they wait for James's final decision. Only having room for a veteran on the minimum salary, the Sixers are rightfully keeping it open for James.
If he doesn't choose Philly in the end, the 76ers don't have to rush to fill the spot. Typically, teams like to keep a spot open before training camp or even later in the year to maintain flexibility.
With that said, the Sixers are likely treating this situation like they are courting a max-level player. James just wrapped up a 60-game season with the Los Angeles Lakers.
During that run, the veteran forward shot 51.5% from the field and 31.7% from deep, averaging 20.9 points per game. Along with his scoring, James came down with 6.1 rebounds per game and dished out 7.2 assists per game.
Add us as a preferred source on Google