Basketball superstar LeBron James has officially signed a two-year contract with the Philadelphia 76ers, the team announced on July 27, 2026.
The deal includes a player option for the 2027-28 season.
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James announced his decision on social media, stating he chose Philadelphia after strongly considering retirement following his 23rd NBA season with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Historic Addition to the Roster
Team president Mike Gansey welcomed the 22-time All-Star, who has won four NBA championships and four MVP awards.
"There is no doubt LeBron is one of the greatest players to ever play the game of basketball," Gansey said.
The signing reunites James with Gansey, who was hired in late May after the Sixers fired Daryl Morey.
The two have known each other since high school, both being former Ohio high school basketball stars.
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James joins a loaded roster featuring Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe, and recently acquired Jaylen Brown.
"I believe I can help make the Philadelphia 76ers a championship team," James said.
The acquisition shifted title projections, with Philadelphia's championship odds moving from +2000 to +900, tying them with the defending champion New York Knicks for the third-best odds in the league.
Owner Josh Harris expressed excitement about the new lineup.
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Philadelphia finished last season with a 45-37 record before being swept in the second round by the Knicks, extending a championship drought since 1983.
