Popular Pickleball Star Reveals Surprise Team Pursuing LeBron James, and It's Not Warriors or Cavaliers

For LeBron James' new team, instead of the usual names like the Warriors or Cavaliers, one surprising prediction has emerged — and it comes from the world of pickleball.

At this stage, the frontrunners to acquire LeBron James seem clear: the Golden State Warriors, Miami Heat, Philadelphia 76ers, and Cleveland Cavaliers. Then there are outliers like the Denver Nuggets and Minnesota Timberwolves. But according to professional pickleball star Anna Leigh Waters, James could end up with a team no one expects: the Portland Trail Blazers.

During this year's ESPYS, several athletes were asked by 'USA Today' where they think the 41-year-old might take his talents next. Their answers were later published in an article.

Anna Leigh Waters, widely considered one of the sport's best, didn't just name the Blazers; she also cited an interesting reason why she thinks so.

"I know the owner of the professional pickleball league just bought the Portland basketball team, the Trail Blazers," she said. "And I know he's trying to get James, so we'll see if that happens."

Meanwhile, Olympic gold medalist Suni Lee predicted James would join the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Technically, any team can pursue James. The real question isn’t cap space — it’s whether they have the talent to contend.

At this stage of his career, James is not interested in signing with the team that can offer the biggest contract. If that were his motivation, he wouldn't still be holding his cards close to his chest at this stage.

His decision will hinge on whether a team can realistically compete for a title, which makes Portland a questionable fit compared to contenders like the Warriors or Heat.

How Would LeBron James Fit In With the Trail Blazers?

The Portland Trail Blazers traded away forwards Jerami Grant and Kris Murray for Grizzlies guard Ja Morant this summer.

They now plan to pair Morant’s explosive offensive talent with veteran Damian Lillard and rising star Deni Avdija.

Their own version of the big three is also surrounded by a decent supporting cast featuring the likes of Toumani Camara, Robert Williams III, Shaedon Sharpe, Scoot Henderson, and Donovan Clingan.

On paper, the Blazers are a team that can make the postseason. However, a few things could hold them back this coming season.

Among these things is how well Damian Lillard can bounce back from his Achilles tendon injury. Another is how well Morant can actually fit in and how well this fresh start will affect him.

Now, LeBron James could be a stabilizing presence for the Blazers. He can mentor the team's young players along with Lillard and can definitely elevate their play with his IQ and court vision.

At this stage of his career, though, James is not at a level where he can wait a few years until the Blazers' young players reach their peaks and they can truly compete for a title.

LeBron’s next move will likely depend on which team offers him the best chance to compete immediately. While Portland’s ownership ties and roster changes make them a dark horse, the franchise’s timeline may not go with James’ championship dream.

Ultimately, Waters’ prediction highlights how even unlikely connections like pickleball ownership ties can spark rumors about LeBron’s next move, but the decision will come down to title contention above all else.