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LeBron James signs with 76ers, Stephen A. Smith reacts

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 24, 2026, 8:30 PM

Last updated Jul 24, 2026

LeBron James signs with 76ers, Stephen A. Smith reacts

Summary

LeBron James has signed a two-year, $8 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers, surprising many, including ESPN's Stephen A. Smith, who anticipated a return to the Cleveland Cavaliers. Smith expressed his shock, noting James's strong ties to Cleveland and the speculation around a potential third stint there. The signing concludes a summer filled with retirement rumors and positions the 76ers as a contender in the Eastern Conference. With James joining forces with recent acquisition Jaylen Brown and established players like Joel Embiid, the team aims for a championship run in the upcoming season.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•LeBron James signs with the 76ers on July 24, 2026.
•James pens a two-year, $8 million deal with a player option.
•Stephen A. Smith expected James to return to the Cavaliers.
•The signing follows speculation about James's potential retirement.
•Philadelphia bolsters its roster with Jaylen Brown's addition.

Latest Updates

8:30 PMYahoo Sports — 76ers’ LeBron James Signing Draws Stephen A. Smith Reaction on Cleveland Cavaliers

What they're saying

"
Stephen A. Smith expected LeBron James to return to familiar ground if the four-time MVP chose the Eastern Conference for the final chapter of his career.Instead, James signed with the Philadelphia 76ers, leaving Smith stunned that the 41-year-old passed on another reunion with the Cleveland Cavaliers.“I’m shocked, because I thought if he was going back […] The post 76ers’ LeBron James Signing Draws Stephen A. Smith Reaction on Cleveland Cavaliers appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

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