DistantNews
Support us
LeBron James officially joins Philadelphia 76ers on two-year deal
๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ธ United States /Sports

LeBron James officially joins Philadelphia 76ers on two-year deal

From PBS NewsHour · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News From a news agency New plan
  • LeBron James officially signed a two-year, $8 million deal with the Philadelphia 76ers, fulfilling his stated desire to join a championship contender.
  • James, who considered retirement, expressed excitement about energizing a new fanbase and embarking on his final NBA journey with the Sixers' star-studded roster.
  • The 76ers, aiming to end a long championship drought, added the 22-time All-Star to a team featuring Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, despite their second-round playoff exit last season.

LeBron James's arrival in Philadelphia is official, with the 76ers announcing his two-year, veteran's minimum deal worth $8 million. James's jersey, number 23, now hangs in a locker adorned with a crown, a nod to his "King" nickname, symbolizing his new role with the team.

There is no doubt LeBron is one of the greatest players to ever play the game of basketball and there are no words to measure the impact he'll have on this organization.

โ€” Mike GanseyTeam president Mike Gansey commented on LeBron James's impact on the organization.

James, the NBA's all-time leading scorer, revealed his decision on social media, stating it would be his "last decision" and came after contemplating retirement. He expressed a strong belief in his ability to help the 76ers become a championship team and his eagerness to energize a new fanbase for his final NBA journey. He posted workout videos from the gym over the weekend, signaling his readiness.

The four-time NBA champion joins a 76ers team boasting All-Star starters Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. The franchise has not won an NBA championship since 1983 and has not advanced past the second round of the Eastern Conference playoffs since 2001. James, who turns 42 in December, aims to replicate his past success, such as leading the Cleveland Cavaliers to a title in 2016.

I believe I can help make the Philadelphia 76ers a championship team and I am so excited to energize a new fan base and start this incredible journey one last time.

โ€” LeBron JamesLeBron James stated his belief in his ability to contribute to a championship and his excitement for his new role.

"I cannot wait to see LeBron alongside Jaylen Brown, VJ Edgecombe, Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and our talented roster as we work to deliver a championship for Philly," said team owner Josh Harris. The 76ers' previous season ended with a 45-37 record and a second-round sweep by the eventual champion New York Knicks.

I cannot wait to see LeBron alongside Jaylen Brown, VJ Edgecombe, Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and our talented roster as we work to deliver a championship for Philly.

โ€” Josh HarrisTeam owner Josh Harris expressed anticipation for LeBron James playing with the team's current stars.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by PBS NewsHour in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.