LeBron James has chosen the Philadelphia 76ers for what he says will be the final contract of his legendary NBA career, bringing an end to months of speculation over his future.
The 41-year-old, who left the Los Angeles Lakers after eight seasons last month, announced the decision on social media, insisting his motivation is no longer financial but the pursuit of one last championship before retirement.
“I believe I can help make the Philadelphia 76ers a championship team and I am so excited to energise a new fanbase and start this incredible journey one last time,” James wrote on X.
Several franchises, including the Cleveland Cavaliers, Golden State Warriors, Minnesota Timberwolves and Miami Heat, were linked with the four-time NBA champion before he settled on Philadelphia.
James arrives with one of the most remarkable resumes in basketball history. He won two NBA championships during his time with the Miami Heat before returning to Cleveland to deliver the Cavaliers’ first-ever NBA title in 2016. He later joined the Lakers in 2018 and guided the franchise to another championship in 2020.
His departure from Los Angeles marked the end of an era after eight successful seasons, during which he became the NBA’s all-time leading scorer and continued to redefine longevity in professional basketball.
The veteran forward admitted he had considered retirement after last season but ultimately decided he still had unfinished business on the court.
“I’m not going for money. I’m not going for family. What am I really playing for at this point?” James said.
“I still want to sacrifice. I still want to work. I still want to grind. I still want to compete, to win and to have a chance at the feeling of winning another championship.”
According to ESPN, James has agreed to a two-year contract worth $8 million, with a player option for the second season. The deal represents a dramatic pay cut from the $50.7 million average salary he earned with the Lakers last season, highlighting his desire to compete rather than maximise earnings.
Philadelphia reached the Eastern Conference semi-finals last season before losing to eventual NBA champions the New York Knicks. The 76ers have since strengthened their roster by acquiring Jaylen Brown from the Boston Celtics in exchange for Paul George and future draft picks.
James’ arrival immediately transforms Philadelphia into one of the leading contenders for the NBA title. If he succeeds in delivering another championship, he would complete an extraordinary career by winning titles with four different franchises before bringing the curtain down on one of basketball’s greatest legacies.