LeBron James joins Philadelphia 76ers, cites Joel Embiid as key factor
4 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 25, 2026, 4:16 PM
Last updated Sep 25, 2026

LeBron James has officially joined the Philadelphia 76ers, marking a significant move ahead of the 2026-27 NBA season. He emphasized Joel Embiid's influence on his decision, stating he wants to help the MVP secure a championship. Embiid has faced challenges throughout his career, but with James, the team aims for a title run. This season is crucial for both players as they strive to bring the 76ers their first championship since 1983.
- •LeBron James enters his 24th NBA season with the 76ers.
- •Joel Embiid's presence played a significant role in LeBron's decision.
- •James aims to assist Embiid in winning his first championship.
- •76ers are focused on breaking their title drought since 1983.
- 5:05 PMESPN NBA — LeBron: Maxey friendship, desire to help Embiid drove 76ers decision
- 2:36 PMYahoo Sports — Why did LeBron choose Philly? James says this Sixer was the main reason why
- 2:34 PMYahoo Sports — LeBron James opens up, explains why he chose Sixers in free agency
- 2:30 PMYahoo Sports — LeBron James reveals the Joel Embiid-related reason why he chose to join Philadelphia
"LeBron James says his longstanding friendship with All-Star Tyrese Maxey and a desire to help Joel Embiid win his first NBA title played significant roles in his decision to sign with the 76ers.
"During his "Mind the Game" podcast, LeBron James spoke on his surprise signing with the Philadelphia 76ers. See why he chose to sign with Philly.
"LeBron James opens up and explains why he chose the Philadelphia 76ers in free agency over the summer.
Sources
External links- ESPN NBASep 25, 2026, 5:05 PMLeBron: Maxey friendship, desire to help Embiid drove 76ers decision
LeBron James says his longstanding friendship with All-Star Tyrese Maxey and a desire to help Joel Embiid win his first NBA title played significant roles in his decision to sign with the 76ers.
- Yahoo SportsSep 25, 2026, 2:36 PMWhy did LeBron choose Philly? James says this Sixer was the main reason why
During his "Mind the Game" podcast, LeBron James spoke on his surprise signing with the Philadelphia 76ers. See why he chose to sign with Philly.
- Yahoo SportsSep 25, 2026, 2:34 PMLeBron James opens up, explains why he chose Sixers in free agency
LeBron James opens up and explains why he chose the Philadelphia 76ers in free agency over the summer.
- Yahoo SportsSep 25, 2026, 2:30 PMLeBron James reveals the Joel Embiid-related reason why he chose to join Philadelphia
LeBron James has given a reason why Joel Embiid played a big role in his choice to join Philly.
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