For as long as anyone can remember, Rich Paul has always represented Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James in the NBA. Now, the King’s agent and friend is in hot water after not paying millions of dollars in fees.
Paul is an American sports agent and the founder of Klutch Sports Group. He grew up in a one-bedroom apartment above his father’s store in Cleveland, Ohio. After graduating high school, Paul was mentored by a vintage jersey seller and started his own jersey resale business. In 2002, he met James and soon became part of his inner circle.
![LeBron James' Friend, Agent Rich Paul Facing Legal Trouble -- Here's Why 1 NBA, Rich Paul](https://www.hardwoodheroics.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/USATSI_18314694-scaled.jpg)
In 2012, Paul left his previous agency, Creative Artists Agency, and co-founded Klutch Sports Group with James. Under Paul’s leadership, Klutch grew rapidly, representing over 25 NBA players by 2020 and negotiating over $1 billion in contracts. In 2020, the agency received a strategic investment from United Talent Agency, and Paul was appointed to UTA’s board of directors.
Paul has faced some controversies, such as the “Rich Paul Rule” introduced by the NCAA, which was seen as an attempt to limit his influence. He was also involved in a legal dispute with big man Nerlens Noel, which was settled in 2023. Despite these challenges, Paul has become one of the most influential sports agents in the NBA, representing top players like LeBron James and expanding his agency’s reach across the industry.
LeBron James’ Agent Rich Paul is Being Sued For $4.9 Million For Breach of Contract
![LeBron James' Friend, Agent Rich Paul Facing Legal Trouble -- Here's Why 2 NBA, LeBron James, Rich Paul](https://www.hardwoodheroics.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/USATSI_16421950_168400517_lowres.jpg)
Just recently, Paul has found himself in hot water after being sued for a large amount of money. In an article by Michael McCain posted on Real GM:
“Mark Termini and his company, Mark Termini Associates, has sued Klutch Sports Group and its founder, Rich Paul, Tuesday in an Ohio federal district for breach of contract. Termini, a longtime agent, worked alongside Paul from 2012 until 2020. Termini claims he is owed more than $4.9 million for unpaid fees and related harms.
Termini says Paul was recruited to provide negotiation services to Klutch Sports. Klutch agreed to pay Termini 25 percent of Klutch and Paul’s gross fee on NBA contracts and marketing deals. Termini estimates he negotiated “in excess of $1.4 billion in contracts” for Klutch. Some of the clients Termini negotiated on behalf of include LeBron James, Draymond Green, Ben Simmons, Tristan Thompson and J.R. Smith,” the article stated.
At this point in time, Klutch Sports has responded to the lawsuit by saying it is inaccurate and misguided. The company added that the issue will be addressed in the proper forum.
![LeBron James' Friend, Agent Rich Paul Facing Legal Trouble -- Here's Why 3 NBA, Rich Paul](https://www.hardwoodheroics.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/USATSI_22075670_168400517_lowres-scaled.jpg)
It remains to be seen how the lawsuit will progress in the coming days. Nevertheless, Paul will have the chance to defend his side if the case reaches a court.
![LeBron James' Friend, Agent Rich Paul Facing Legal Trouble -- Here's Why 4 NBA, Rich Paul](https://www.hardwoodheroics.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/USATSI_20274742_168400517_lowres-scaled.jpg)
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