The Cleveland Cavaliers were on LeBron James' shortlist in free agency this year, but in the end, the four-time MVP decided chose against a third stint with his old team and joined the Philadelphia 76ers.

PHILADELPHIA — LeBron James said 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 a two-year, $8 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers in July.

Potentially the biggest storyline entering the NBA season this year is 41-year-old LeBron James, who joined the Philadelphia 76ers this offseason on a two-year, $8 million deal.James will now join forces with Tyrese Maxey,

LeBron James reportedly had several "lengthy" talks with Joel Embiid before deciding to sign with the Philadelphia 76ers this offseason, according to ESPN's Dave McMenamin.

James played the previous eight seasons with the Lakers, his longest continuous streak with one team in his career.

LeBron James is entering another chapter of his career with the Philadelphia 76ers , but the 41-year-old star remains motivated by the challenge that has followed him throughout his later years: Father Time.

LeBron James explained that the Philadelphia 76ers must prevent media narratives from affecting the team throughout the 2026-27 season.