LeBron James Chooses Philadelphia, Agrees to Two-Year Deal With 76ers
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Los Angeles — July 24, 2026 — LeBron James will finish his storied NBA career in Philadelphia. The four-time MVP has committed to the Philadelphia 76ers on a two-year contract worth $8 million, including a player option for the second season, according to Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul.
ESPN’s Shams Charania first reported the agreement early Thursday, ending weeks of speculation after James confirmed he would play a 24th season but leave the Los Angeles Lakers.
Why Philadelphia
Moments after news of the deal surfaced, James published a multi-part post on X explaining his choice. The 41-year-old forward said he contemplated retirement when the 2025-26 campaign concluded but realized “I still truly love this game.” He added that the decision was not about money or geography, stating, “I still want to sacrifice… compete, to win and to have a chance at the feeling of winning another championship. I believe I can help make the Philadelphia 76ers a championship team.”
End of an Era in Los Angeles
James departs the Lakers after eight consecutive seasons, the longest stretch with one franchise in his career. He delivered the organization’s 17th championship inside the 2020 Orlando bubble and surpassed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to become the league’s all-time leading scorer while wearing purple and gold. His tenure also coincided with the team’s transition through the tragic death of Kobe Bryant.
The Lakers, now building around star guard Luka Dončić, acknowledged James’ contributions in a statement from team governor Jeanie Buss. “We will always be thankful for his eight years with the Lakers — including the title he led us to in 2020 under the toughest imaginable circumstances,” Buss said, adding that James “will always be a cherished part of the Lakers family.”
Contract Details
The agreement carries a modest average annual value of $4 million, underscoring James’ stated desire to prioritize a championship chase over salary at this stage of his career. The player option gives him flexibility to retire or test free agency again after the 2026-27 season.
James now joins a 76ers core built around perennial All-Star center Joel Embiid, eyeing what would be his fifth NBA title and Philadelphia’s first since 1983.
Source: Lakers Nation
