By: Betty Cantley
Philadelphia, PA – After weeks of contemplating, LeBron James made a blockbuster decision to sign with the Philadelphia 76ers. Fans speculated that James would have finished his NBA career with the Cleveland Cavaliers (where his career started), but that wasn’t the case.
James was also considering signing with the Miami Heat or the Golden State Warriors. The city of brotherly love, Philadelphia, was his choice.
James made a stunning new chapter of his record-breaking 24th NBA Season and will be making history with the 76ers.
James, at 41 years old making his final free agency. He is signing a two-year, $8 million contract utilizing the veteran minimum exception, featuring a player option for the second year.
He will be taking a pay cut after earning $53 million last season with the Los Angeles Lakers. James took a 2% salary cut.
James took several weeks to evaluate his future before deciding his competitive side wasn’t done yet. He did reveal that when the previous season ended, he thought about retiring.
In a statement shared, James emphasized the motivation behind the move: “This is my last decision. I’m not going for the money, not going for family. What am I really playing for at this point? I still want to sacrifice to compete, to win and to have a chance at the feeling of winning another championship.”
This is James’ final major free agency of his legendary career.
How does he fit and what will the impact be on his roster? James departs Los Angeles after an eight-year run to join a loaded Philadelphia team featuring Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe, and recent blockbuster Jaylen Brown.
The move gives the 76ers, who haven’t won an NBA title since 1983 – one of the most formidable starting lineups on paper in the entire league- instantaneously launching them into top championship contender status alongside teams like the New York Knicks.