LeBron James has decided to pursue a fifth NBA championship with the Philadelphia 76ers in what he described as his final season. The 24th-year player announced his decision Friday morning, agreeing to a two-year, $8 million contract. James indicated that his choice was driven solely by the pursuit of another championship, outweighing factors like family proximity or financial gain.
After a 24-day deliberation period, James chose Philadelphia despite not having prior ties to the team or city, unlike his championship stints with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat. He also noted he does not have established relationships with current 76ers players like Golden State's Steph Curry or Draymond Green, whom he has played with previously. However, he believes the 76ers offer the best opportunity to compete for a title.
"This is my last decision," James stated on X. "I’m not going for money. I’m not going for family. What am I really playing for at this point? I still want to sacrifice. I still want to work. I still want to grind. I still want to compete, to win and to have a chance at the feeling of winning another championship."
He added, "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 joins a Philadelphia roster that includes Joel Embiid, Jaylen Brown, and Tyrese Maxey. The 76ers were in need of a power forward, and James, despite being the league's oldest player at 41, is considered one of the best playmakers available. His addition is expected to complement Maxey and Brown, potentially creating a strong offensive unit if Embiid remains healthy.
James and Embiid previously won a gold medal together at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. James has also publicly supported Maxey and acknowledged Brown's performance last season.
The 76ers have not won an NBA championship since 1983. James' decision to join Philadelphia comes after observing the New York Knicks' championship run in the 2025-26 season, which he cited as an inspiration for chasing the emotional high of winning a title.
James' career has followed a pattern of achieving championships within his second season with previous teams. He won a title in his second year with Miami, led Cleveland to its first championship in his second season there, and secured a title with the Lakers in his second year with the team. He appears to be setting a similar timeline for his tenure in Philadelphia.
James spent eight seasons with the Lakers and had considered retirement before deciding to return for this final season. He is aiming to recreate the experience of championship victories, including hearing the roar of the crowd and hoisting the Larry O'Brien Trophy once more.