The internet might have overreacted on some LeBron James rumors, again.
The Lakers star addressed the buzz surrounding a “Welcome home” hat he was seen wearing while golfing in Cleveland last week. With rumors flying about a possible Cavaliers reunion, it has come to light the message wasn’t about basketball at all.
LeBron rocking a “Welcome Home” hat 👀👀👀 pic.twitter.com/3CYgBC4uP0
— ESPN Cleveland (@ESPNCleveland) July 2, 2025
Paul Rivera, co-creator of The Shop with James, posted a video to clarify the situation.
“Wanted to check in with you guys about this little thing called ‘Hat Gate,’” Rivera said. “I did not expect this hat right here, ‘welcome home,’ to turn the sports world upside down a couple of years ago. This hat you see right here that everyone thought was some secret message … if you just turn it around, you’ll see it’s Homecoming Network hat.”
James reposted Rivera’s explanation on his X account Tuesday night with no further comment, seemingly enjoying how far the speculation had gone.
Let’s clear the air about “hat gate” pic.twitter.com/SvuLn8526j
— Homecoming Network (@Homecoming_Net) July 8, 2025
The Cavaliers chatter ramped up after LeBron worked out at Cleveland’s facility during the holiday week.
The hat only added fuel to the fire as fans and media speculated about a fairytale third stint in his home state.
But James, 40 years old, appears locked in on the Lakers for now. He opted into his $52.6 million player option last month, setting himself up for a 2025-26 season that could be his last before free agency—or even retirement.
“It was fun while it lasted,” Rivera joked about the rumor mill spinning out of control.
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