The basketball world was ablaze on Wednesday morning after the Miami Heat’s ​YouTube account mistakenly posted a video the night ‌before teasing the possible return of LeBron ​James, who has yet to announce ⁠where he will play his 24th NBA season.

A live stream titled “LeBron James Introductory Press Conference” scheduled for ‌July 27 was uploaded to the Heat’s channel on Tuesday night but was ‌later deleted, leaving fans wondering if ‌the ⁠41-year-old is heading back to the ⁠team he won two championships with.

A team spokesperson told ESPN that the Heat’s social media department was preparing for ​the possibility of ‌James’ signing and mistakenly posted the link to the team’s YouTube page.

The Heat did not immediately respond to a request for comment ‌from Reuters.

James announced he was leaving ​the Los Angeles Lakers last month and where he plays next has become ⁠the most compelling off-season storyline, with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Philadelphia 76ers and Heat all reportedly ‌top candidates.

The anticipation has even seeped into the betting world as BetOnline Sports & Casino is taking wagers on when James will announce his decision, with July 24 leading the way and Miami coming as the favoured destination.

Rich ‌Paul, James’ long-time friend and agent, said on ​a podcast episode released earlier this week that his client will not be ⁠hurried into a decision.

“We’re not going to be ⁠rushed,” Paul said on an episode of “Game Over with Max Kellerman and Rich ‌Paul” released on Monday. “It’s his choice to make and when he makes the choice, ​he’ll make it.”

Published on Jul 22, 2026