Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro personally lobbied LeBron James to join the Philadelphia 76ers ahead of the basketball star's decision to sign with the Eastern Conference team. The encounter occurred at ZZ's Club, a private membership club in New York City, where Shapiro was dining with former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.
According to reports, James approached the Clintons, and Shapiro, a self-proclaimed avid sports fan, seized the opportunity to make his pitch. The meeting took place about a week before James finalized a two-year, $8 million contract with the 76ers.
Following the announcement of James's move to Philadelphia, Shapiro took to social media to celebrate. He proclaimed July 24 as "LeBron James Day" in Pennsylvania, expressing his enthusiasm as both the state's governor and a dedicated fan of the 76ers. "LEBRON IS COMING TO PHILLY," Shapiro wrote on X, formerly Twitter. "By the power vested in me as the Governor of the great Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and a die-hard Sixers fan… I hereby proclaim today to be LEBRON JAMES DAY. Welcome to the City of Brotherly Love, @KingJames."
James, who has won four NBA championships, stated that his decision was not motivated by money but by the desire to compete for another title. He expressed his belief that he can contribute to making the Philadelphia 76ers a championship team and is excited to energize a new fanbase for what he anticipates will be his final journey in the league. The 76ers have not won an NBA championship since 1983.
James reportedly considered other teams, including the Miami Heat and the Golden State Warriors, before ultimately choosing Philadelphia to position himself for another championship run.