NBA icon LeBron James has announced that he will join the Philadelphia 76ers, bringing an end to months of speculation over his future after leaving the Los Angeles Lakers.

The 41-year-old confirmed the move on social media on Friday, July 24, 2026, describing it as the "last decision" of his playing career after seriously considering retirement following the end of last season.

“I believe I can help make the Philadelphia 76ers a championship team and I am so excited to energize a new fan base and start this incredible journey one last time,” James wrote.

The four-time NBA champion admitted he initially believed his 23rd NBA season would be his last.

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“I was pretty sure I played my last game. I was honest at that last press conference when I said I needed to look at myself and decide if I still love this game,” James said. “I still truly love this game, and I have more to give,” he added.

James joins a talented Philadelphia side featuring former NBA MVP Joel Embiid, All-Star guard Tyrese Maxey, Jaylen Brown and promising youngster VJ Edgecombe. The 76ers reached the Eastern Conference semi-finals last season but were swept by eventual champions the New York Knicks.

Philadelphia will become the fourth franchise of James' remarkable career after spells with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat and Los Angeles Lakers.

Widely regarded as one of the greatest players in basketball history, James has won four NBA championships and is preparing for a record-extending 24th NBA season.

His arrival significantly boosts the 76ers' hopes of ending a title drought that stretches back to 1983 and mounting a serious challenge for the NBA championship.

I thought I was done when the season ended. I wasn't ready to announce it, and I knew I needed some time to really decide, but I was pretty sure I played my last game. I was honest at that last press conference when I said I needed to look at myself and deicide if I still love

— LeBron James (@KingJames) July 24, 2026