In one of the most surprising free-agency moves in modern NBA history, four-time champion and all-time leading scorer LeBron James announced he is joining the Philadelphia 76ers for his 24th professional season.
The 41-year-old superstar agreed to a two-year, $8 million contract containing a player option, as confirmed by Klutch Sports Group CEO Rich Paul. The deal ends an eight-year tenure with the Los Angeles Lakers and pairs James with a core featuring Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe, and newly acquired swingman Jaylen Brown.
Addressing the decision on social media, James revealed he strongly considered retiring following the conclusion of the 2025–26 campaign before taking time off to contemplate his future.
“I thought I was done when the season ended… but I still truly love this game, and I have more to give,” James wrote. “This is my last decision. I’m not going for money. I’m not going for family. What am I really playing for at this point? I still want to sacrifice, work, grind, compete, and have a chance at the feeling of winning another championship.”
By accepting a team-friendly deal, James gives Philadelphia maximum roster flexibility as the franchise pursues its first NBA title since 1983.
James enters his 24th season coming off an All-Star year where he averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists, and 6.1 rebounds over 60 games. Slated to fill the starting power forward spot, he provides the 76ers with crucial frontcourt depth, elite playmaking, and veteran leadership alongside Embiid.
The addition capped off a transformative month for Philadelphia’s front office, coming on the heels of a blockbuster trade earlier in July that brought Jaylen Brown to the team in exchange for Paul George and future draft picks.
The announcement sent shockwaves through Philadelphia and across Pennsylvania. Governor Josh Shapiro celebrated the news on social media, welcoming the 22-time All-Star to the Commonwealth and declaring it a landmark day for Sixers fans.
James closed his personal announcement by acknowledging his previous NBA homes:
“Thank you LA. Miami I’ll forever love and Northeast Ohio will always be home! I am so excited to energize a new fan base and start this incredible journey one last time.”
