AKRON, Ohio -- LeBron James is expected to end months of speculation by announcing Friday he will make himself eligible for the NBA draft.

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The 6-foot-8 James is considered by many to be the No. 1 selection in the June 26 draft.

Alexandria Boone, the high school star's publicist, confirmed Thursday that James would meet with reporters on Friday afternoon at Akron's St. Vincent-St. Mary High School.

Boone did not disclose what James would say.

However, James has not been actively recruited by college coaches for more than a year. He also has played in more postseason all-star games than the NCAA permits and would have to sit out his freshman season even if he did accept a college scholarship offer.

James is a three-time Mr. Basketball in Ohio and was chosen as USA Today's national player of the year. He capped a turbulent season -- which included a suspension by the state's high school athletic association -- by leading St. Vincent-St. Mary to its third state championship in his four seasons.

He averaged 30.4 points, 9.7 rebounds, 4.9 assists and 2.9 steals as a senior -- and has been named the MVP in all three of his postseason all-star games.

The NBA's deadline for underclassmen to make themselves eligible for the draft is May 12.

James said on April 16 that he would sit down with his family within the next two weeks and "make a decision about what I'm gonna do ... so everything starts flowing.''

Boone said James would be making "announcements.''

The 18-year-old James is also being pursued by a number of companies to sign an endorsement deal. Industry experts have estimated James will command a shoe and apparel contract of at least $20 million.

On Sunday, James attended the Magic-Pistons playoff game in Auburn Hills, Mich.

The Denver Nuggets and Cleveland Cavaliers have the best odds of winning the No. 1 overall pick in the draft lottery on May 22.