LeBron James considered finishing career with Knicks before their championship win
The NBA star revealed his past aspirations for Madison Square Garden, but the Knicks' title shifted his focus to the 76ers.
LeBron James admitted he once envisioned ending his NBA career with the New York Knicks, a plan that changed after the team secured its first championship in 53 years. James shared these past aspirations during the Philadelphia 76ers' Media Day on Monday, detailing his previous interest in playing at Madison Square Garden.
"I had visions of playing in [Madison Square] Garden and finishing my career in the Garden," James told ESPN. "One of the best places I’ve ever played. I think it’s the No. 1 arena in the world, as far as for a basketball player. But after they beat San Antonio, I was like, ‘Hey, I can’t.’ I couldn’t do it."
Following the Knicks' championship victory in June, James's free agency considerations this offseason were limited to his current team, the Cavaliers, Heat, Warriors, and Timberwolves. He explained that joining the Knicks after their historic season would have drawn significant criticism from fans and the media.
"Y’all wouldn’t have let me lay that down, at all," James said, referring to the media. "But much respect to the Knicks, obviously. An unbelievable team, unbelievable players. Shout out Jalen Brunson. I love that guy, he’s unbelievable. But, yeah, I’m happy where I’m at, and I’m looking forward to it."
The Knicks did inquire about James's availability in July, though a signing was deemed "very, very unlikely" by The Post. Rich Paul, James's agent, elaborated on the Knicks' diminished appeal post-championship on his Netflix podcast, "Game Over." Paul stated that if the Knicks had not won the title, James likely would have joined them.
James ultimately signed a two-year, $8 million deal with the 76ers, emphasizing that finances were not his primary motivation. He aims to make an impact and win a championship in a new city during the later stages of his career. James also noted, "I didn’t leave my family to lose in the second round."
The Knicks eliminated the 76ers in the second round of the playoffs in May. Philadelphia has not reached the NBA Finals since the 2000-01 season. James is set to begin his tenure with the 76ers alongside Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, Jaylen Brown, and VJ Edgecombe. Their season opener is scheduled for October 20 against the Knicks at Madison Square Garden.