Philadelphia — LeBron James has agreed to a two-year contract with the Philadelphia 76ers, agent Rich Paul told ESPN’s Shams Charania on Tuesday, ending more than three weeks of speculation about the future of the 20-time All-Star.
The agreement is for the veteran minimum, valued at approximately $3.88 million for the 2024-25 season, and includes a player option for 2025-26. Klutch Sports confirmed the deal in a separate announcement.
James, 39, informed the Los Angeles Lakers on June 30 that he would not return after eight seasons in Southern California. In a social-media post disclosing his decision, the four-time MVP said retirement had been a serious consideration.
“I thought I was done when the season ended,” James wrote. “I wasn’t ready to announce it, and I knew I needed some time to really decide, but I was pretty sure I played my last game.”
He ultimately chose to continue playing, adding, “I still truly love this game, and I have more to give.” James stated that neither money nor family dictated his move; instead, the chance to chase another championship proved decisive.
“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,” he said, thanking Los Angeles, Miami and his native Northeast Ohio.
James joins a retooled roster featuring reigning MVP Joel Embiid, guard Tyrese Maxey, newly acquired forward Jaylen Brown and rookie VJ Edgecombe. Philadelphia obtained Brown from the Boston Celtics earlier this month in the trade that sent Paul George to Boston.
Maxey, a fellow Klutch client, and team president of basketball operations Mike Gansey—who previously worked in the Cleveland Cavaliers’ front office during James’s second stint there—played key roles in the recruitment. According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, Gansey stayed in frequent contact with Paul while Maxey, Embiid and Brown reached out directly to James.
The 76ers must clear a roster spot before the signing becomes official because of their proximity to the league’s first luxury-tax apron.
James will turn 42 in December and is poised to begin his record-setting 24th NBA season. Despite his age, he averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists and 6.1 rebounds on 51.5 percent shooting last year.
With rumors linking him to Cleveland, Miami, Golden State and several other destinations finally resolved, LeBron James is now set to wear a Philadelphia uniform.
Source: Hoops Wire
