LeBron James Signs with Philadelphia 76ers for Final NBA Run

On July 24, 2026, LeBron James announced on X that he will sign a two-year, $8 million contract with a player option to the Philadelphia 76ers. The deal marks his fourth NBA team and is billed as his “last decision” before retirement.

ESPN

James, the league’s all-time leading scorer, spent the 2025-26 season with the Lakers, averaging 20.9 points, 6.1 rebounds and 7.2 assists. The Sixers finished 45-37, were swept by the Knicks in the Eastern Conference semifinals, and have not won a title since 1983. Recent moves added 2024 Finals MVP Jaylen Brown, MVP Joel Embiid, All-Star guard Tyrese Maxey and rookie VJ Edgecombe, forming a roster the franchise hopes can finally capture a championship.

LeBron James announces he is signing with 76ers Philly VoiceFox News (website)

• June 30, 2026 – James told the Lakers he would not return for a fifth season.

Fox News (website)

• July 24, 2026 – James posted on X that he is signing with Philadelphia, describing the move as his final attempt at another championship.

ESPN

• Career totals: 22-time All-Star, 21-time All-NBA, four-time MVP, four-time Finals MVP, 26.8 ppg, 7.5 rpg, 7.4 apg (NBA official stats).

LeBron James announces he is signing with 76ers Philly Voice

• 2025-26 season: 20.9 ppg, 6.1 rpg, 7.2 apg.

LeBron James announces he is signing with 76ers

• Sixers 2025-26 record: 45-37, eliminated in second round.

Philly Voice

• Championship drought: 43 years (last in 1983).

ESPN

Rich Paul, CEO of Klutch Sports, confirmed the contract terms and said James’ “basketball happiness” drove the decision. Bob Myers, president of Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, told Klutch’s “Game Over” podcast that the Sixers view James as “the best chance to win.” Mike Gansey, the Sixers’ president of basketball operations, said negotiations were smooth, and teammates Maxey, Embiid and Brown have spoken directly with James about the team’s vision.

ESPN

• “This is my last decision. I'm not going for money. I'm not going for family. What am I really playing for at this point?” — LeBron James

ESPN

• “If he was here, I'd say, 'I honestly believe this is your best chance to win.” — Bob Myers

ESPN

The acquisition gives Philadelphia a veteran scorer at a veteran-minimum salary, potentially reshaping the Eastern Conference balance. With Embiid, Maxey, Brown and Edgecombe already forming a core, James adds experience and a championship mindset. Analysts note the Sixers’ odds to win the NBA Finals moved from +900 to +370 at major sportsbooks after the announcement, reflecting heightened expectations.

ESPN

All sources agree on the contract length, value and player option; no contradictory figures have emerged. Details on James’ projected minutes, injury management and the exact role of backup center Andre Drummond versus rookie Ariel Hukporti remain unspecified.

Philly Voice