LeBron James will play for the Philadelphia 76ers in the coming NBA season. At his first official media day with the team, the 41-year-old explained why he did not join the New York Knicks, despite once picturing the end of his career at Madison Square Garden.
James called the arena one of the best places he has played and said he considers it the world’s top basketball venue. But after the Knicks beat the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA Finals, he said, joining New York was no longer an option. The Knicks had initially been among the teams he seriously considered, before the championship result took them out of contention.
Before his 24th NBA season, James also considered the Golden State Warriors, Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat and Minnesota Timberwolves. In Philadelphia he will team up with Joel Embiid, Jaylen Brown and his close friend Tyrese Maxey. James said his conversations with Maxey were decisive in his choice.
He said he joined the 76ers to win and wants to help his teammates pursue an NBA title. His precise role has not yet been determined. James said he would do whatever the team needs and will wear No. 23 in Philadelphia.
James has won two NBA championships with Miami and one each with Cleveland and the Los Angeles Lakers. Slovenian star Luka Dončić became the Lakers’ leading face after James’ departure.