LeBron James is officially a member of the Philadelphia 76ers, and the franchise wasted no time marking the occasion with a fitting tribute.
When the team announced James’ arrival on Monday, they shared a photo of his blue No. 23 jersey hanging inside the locker room, complete with a crown sitting above it in recognition of his long-standing “King James” nickname.
The announcement came as James’ two-year, $8 million veteran minimum contract with Philadelphia became official, bringing one of the greatest players in NBA history to a franchise still searching for its first championship since 1983.
“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,” 76ers president Mike Gansey said.
“I have had the pleasure of knowing LeBron since high school and have seen the high-level impact he’s produced at every stop of his basketball journey,” Gansey said. “He is a consummate professional, the ultimate competitor and a tireless worker. But he is also an incredible person with natural leadership traits, a family man, and someone who possesses unwavering commitment to community and those around him.”
James also shared his excitement about the move after revealing last week that he had seriously considered retirement before deciding to continue his career in Philadelphia.
“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,” James said.
The Sixers believe the four-time NBA champion can elevate a roster already featuring Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, Jaylen Brown and rising rookie VJ Edgecombe.
“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,” team owner Josh Harris said.
James enters his 24th NBA season after averaging 20.9 points, 6.1 rebounds and 7.2 assists last year. The NBA’s all-time leading scorer has already captured championships with the Heat, Cavaliers and Lakers, while becoming the first player to win NBA Finals MVP honours with three different franchises.
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