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League: NBASport: BasketballCountry: United StatesCategory: Breaking News

LeBron James recruitment process favored a return to Miami initially

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 24, 2026, 8:29 PM

Last updated Jul 24, 2026

LeBron James recruitment process favored a return to Miami initially
Summary

Rich Paul shared that he and LeBron James believed for a significant period that James would return to the Miami Heat. He stated that while Miami seemed like a great fit due to their past success together, they eventually reconsidered, aiming to preserve their memories from two championship wins there. Joel Embiid played a key role in recruiting James to the Philadelphia 76ers after the acquisition of Jaylen Brown. The Sixers engaged with James through multiple channels, suggesting they made a strong case for his joining the team.

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Yahoo Sports
Latest Updates
  • •Rich Paul indicates LeBron initially leaned towards rejoining Miami.
  • •James and Paul wanted to cherish memories from Miami's championship wins.
  • •Joel Embiid significantly influenced James' decision during the recruitment.
  • •Tyrese Maxey and other players made efforts to recruit James directly.
  • •LeBron, at 41, will become the oldest player in Sixers history.
Latest Updates
  • 8:29 PMYahoo Sports — Rich Paul and LeBron James thought 'for a lot of the time' that he would end up back in Miami
What they're saying
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Rich Paul and LeBron James thought 'for a lot of the time' that he would end up back in Miami

Related Teams & Leagues
Cleveland CavaliersLos Angeles LakersMiami HeatPhiladelphia 76ersNBABasketball

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