Oregon got close to landing James before he committed to USC, and it’s very likely that he’ll wind up back on the school’s radar if he decides to transfer. The school’s relationship with Nike would be a huge benefit considering his dad’s deal with the company, and he’d be able to get on the floor and likely get consistent minutes if he played for the Ducks. Consider them the favorite.

James could opt to return home to Ohio and play for the state’s biggest college, as the Buckeyes would no doubt be a sensible landing spot. Ohio State would probably welcome someone of James’ star power and local ties on the roster, and we’re wondering if James could make the starting roster with improved play.

The James family has clear ties to Duquesne, especially now that LeBron James’ old high school teammate Dru Joyce III is the team’s head coach. The school made the NCAA tournament this past season, and it’s very possible adding James could keep the team in contention for another March Madness appearance.

Pepperdine presents an intriguing option for James, as he’d be able to stay on the West Coast and join a team where he’d likely start. The program is reportedly about to hire Grand Canyon’s Ed Schilling as its next head coach, who just helped Bryce Drew take the Lopes to the NCAA tournament. Landing James as a possible transfer would be a heck of way to get started.

While James would most likely be a role player at Duke without a leap in performance, it’s fascinating to imagine a world where someone from the James family finally lands in Durham, North Carolina, after LeBron James almost played there in college. While we’re not sure how realistic this is based on potential playing time, we do think these two sides will at least talk.