In an unexpected career move, James chose the Sixers in his latest free-agency decision after spending the last eight seasons playing for the Los Angeles Lakers and winning a championship with the California-based franchise.
Speaking on the “Mind the Game” podcast with Steve Nash on Friday, James finally revealed the reasons he chose Philadelphia and explained that helping Joel Embiid capture his first NBA championship was one of the most important factors behind his decision. James pointed to Embiid’s career-wide accomplishments before explaining what he hopes to provide his new teammate. Embiid has never advanced beyond the Eastern Conference semifinals. The 76ers went 45-37 last season before the eventual champion New York Knicks swept them in the second round.
James mentioned his longstanding friendship with Tyrese Maxey and Philadelphia’s acquisition of Jaylen Brown as other significant things impacting his choice. Discussing James’ comments, ESPN’s Dave McMenamin reported that the four-time champion and Embiid indeed had “multiple lengthy conversations” before James made his decision.