PHILADELPHIA, Pa. (Diya TV) — LeBron James has made what he says will be the final free-agency decision of his legendary NBA career. The four-time NBA champion announced Friday that he will join the Philadelphia 76ers as he begins what could be his last run at another title.
James agreed to a two-year, $8 million contract with a player option, according to Klutch Sports Group CEO Rich Paul, who confirmed the deal to ESPN’s Shams Charania. The move ends James’ eight-season stay with the Los Angeles Lakers and starts a new chapter with his fourth NBA franchise.
The 41-year-old forward shared on X that he strongly considered retirement after the 2025-26 season. However, after taking time to reflect, he realized he still has the desire to compete.
“I still truly love this game, and I have more to give,” James wrote. He added that winning remains his biggest motivation. He also said he wants to keep working, sacrificing, and chasing another NBA championship.
James made it clear that money did not drive his decision. Instead, he wanted the best chance to compete for another title before ending his historic career.
Philadelphia believes James can help end the franchise’s long championship drought. The 76ers last won the NBA title in 1983. Since then, the team has reached the NBA Finals only once and has struggled to break through in the playoffs.
The Sixers finished the 2025-26 regular season with a 45-37 record. They then lost to the eventual NBA champion New York Knicks in four games during the second round of the playoffs. Now, the franchise hopes James can provide the leadership and experience needed to push the team deeper into the postseason.
Philadelphia worked hard to recruit James. Rich Paul previously said his client wanted “basketball happiness,” and the Sixers built their pitch around winning. Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment president Bob Myers publicly said Philadelphia offered James the best opportunity to compete for another championship.
Meanwhile, team president of basketball operations Mike Gansey stayed in regular contact with Paul throughout free agency. At the same time, Sixers stars Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid, and newly acquired Jaylen Brown personally reached out to James. Maxey, who also works with Klutch Sports, reportedly led those conversations.
James said he believes he can help transform Philadelphia into a championship contender.
“I believe I can help make the Philadelphia 76ers a championship team,” James wrote. “I am so excited to energize a new fan base and start this incredible journey one last time.”
The move also brings James back to the Eastern Conference, where he spent most of his career. There, he will face familiar rivals, including Donovan Mitchell’s Cleveland Cavaliers and Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Miami Heat.
Philadelphia also holds special memories for James. During high school, he played at the historic Palestra while representing St. Vincent-St. Mary. In addition, he has often praised Philadelphia fans for their passion and loyalty.
After a victory over the 76ers last December, James said he respected the city’s fans because they always stand behind their teams. He added that earning respect from Philadelphia supporters has always meant something to him.
