LeBron James makes no announcement, reveals what’s most important in free agency

LeBron James still isn’t ready to reveal his next team. But he did offer more insight Friday into what will drive his decision.

Appearing during a live taping of The Shop at Fanatics Fest in New York, James said his priority is finding a franchise that shares his commitment to winning.

“What’s most important is that I want to compete,” James said, via Anthony Chiang of the Miami Herald. “I want to compete at a high level. I want to join a franchise that shares the same model as myself. That’s like practicing championship habits every day.”

James earlier reminded the audience that no decision has been made.

“We do not have an announcement to make just yet,” he said, via ESPN’s Kalan Hooks.

At one point, James also used the phrase “trust the process” while discussing what he values in his next team, prompting a loud reaction from the crowd, according to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin. Many fans interpreted the comment as a possible nod to the 76ers before James quickly moved on.

League sources continue to tell Hoops Wire that the Cavaliers, Heat, 76ers and Warriors are viewed as the leaders in the LeBron sweepstakes.

Meanwhile, NBA insider Marc Stein said on the ALL CITY podcast that Cleveland is still viewed around the league as the team to beat.

“All these teams are describing Cleveland as the scenario to beat,” Stein said. “Both Miami and Philly are prominently in the mix.”

Stein added that if James chooses an Eastern Conference team, it would not come as a surprise.

More from Hoops Wire

• LeBron: ‘I won’t hold you guys up much longer’
• LeBron minding the game, and playing the game, as only he can
• LeBron keeps everyone guessing at Fanatics Fest