LeBron James is joining the Philadelphia 76ers for his record-extending 24th NBA season.
He posted a video to Instagram announcing his decision on Friday morning after weeks of rampant speculation over his NBA future.
“This is my last decision. I’m not going for money. I’m not going for family. What am I really playing for at this point? 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,” James wrote on social media.
“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.”
The 41-year-old, who last March surpassed Robert Parish’s record for most career regular-season games played, has continued to perform at an elite level despite his age.
He spent the last eight seasons of his glittering career with the Los Angeles Lakers, leading them to a title in 2020 after two separate stints with the Cleveland Cavaliers and four years with the Miami Heat.
He earned a league-record 22nd consecutive All-Star selection last February during a season in which he averaged 20.9 points, 6.1 rebounds and 7.2 assists over 60 games.
James’ departure from the Lakers last month made his next move the most compelling storyline of the NBA off-season.
The Cavaliers, 76ers and the Heat were all reportedly leading contenders for his signature.
The intense anticipation even extended to the betting markets, with BetOnline Sports & Casino accepting wagers on James’ announcement date, with July 24 favored, and Miami emerging as the most likely destination.
Another twist in the saga came Tuesday night when the Miami Heat inadvertently published a video about his potential return.
The team published a live stream titled “LeBron James Introductory Press Conference,” scheduled for July 27, before swiftly deleting it.
The gaffe immediately fueled speculation among fans about whether the superstar was poised to rejoin the franchise with whom he secured two championships.
