LeBron James befriended John Wall at his All-American camp as a high school senior, traveled to campus to watch him play and even enlisted rapper Drake to woo John Wall to LRMR, James? fledgling marketing company.

Multiple NBA, agent and sneaker industry sources say Wall is close to partnering with the firm.

James? childhood friend, Maverick Carter, is the CEO of LRMR and responsible for running his management company. Carter?s had a consistent presence with Wall?s AAU coach and surrogate, Brian Clifton, for months, and Clifton offered nothing to dispute the word of sources who say James and Wall are going into business together.

Clifton insisted there?s nothing ?formal in place? with LRMR, and an announcement wouldn?t happen until Wall completes paperwork to enter the draft.

Still, Clifton told Yahoo! Sports, ?Maverick is a really good friend and does a tremendous job. It would be smart on anybody?s part to work with him. He?s done some very innovative things. He has an innovative way of thinking.

?The areas they?re moving into would be beneficial to John or any kid. They can select who they want to work with, and it?s absolutely flattering to be considered. These guys are young enough and new enough that what they?re doing hasn?t been around to be in vogue. I don?t think it?s much of a gamble or a long shot. They?re doing a lot of things right, in my opinion.?