LeBron James says he came close to signing with the New York Knicks during the recent offseason. Reporting across outlets indicates the decision was not fully finalized until late in the process, and James describes a specific factor that ultimately kept him from making the move.

Both sources characterize the Knicks as a realistic option that was closer than many observers understood. They differ in emphasis—one outlet focuses on the particular “one thing” James cites as decisive, while the other frames the revelation as coming from a broader commentary about how near the deal was. However, neither source attributes details such as contract terms or formal negotiations to the public beyond James’ own statements. The accounts collectively reflect that James weighs team fit and timing, and that his eventual choice does not match what some fans assumed.

Overall, the reports present James’ disclosure that a Knicks arrival was a credible possibility this summer, while offering limited additional information on specifics beyond the reasoning he highlights.