LeBron James joins Philadelphia 76ers after Lakers exit
By William Muthama, July 24, 2026NBA star LeBron James is set to begin a new chapter with the Philadelphia 76ers after agreeing to a two-year, $8 million contract (Ksh1.03 billion), ending his eight-year stint with the Los Angeles Lakers.
ESPN’s Shams Charania and Dave McMenamin announced the blockbuster free-agency move on Friday, July 24, 2026, confirming that the four-time NBA champion will continue his career in Philadelphia.
The move marks another major milestone in James’ legendary career as he prepares for a record 24th NBA season.
The 41-year-old informed the Lakers last month that he would not return, bringing to a close a successful spell in Los Angeles that included leading the franchise to the 2020 NBA championship.
Championship chase continues
Rather than pursuing the highest possible salary, James opted for a team-friendly deal as he continues his pursuit of a fifth NBA title.
Philadelphia emerged as his preferred destination after assembling one of the league’s strongest rosters. The 76ers recently acquired Jaylen Brown to complement former NBA MVP Joel Embiid and All-Star guard Tyrese Maxey, creating a formidable core capable of challenging for the championship.
According to ESPN, Embiid, Maxey and Brown personally helped recruit James, while the 76ers’ front office sold the veteran forward on the franchise’s championship ambitions.
New big four
James is expected to play a key playmaking role alongside Maxey while sharing the court with Embiid’s dominance in the paint and Brown’s two-way versatility.
Despite battling injuries last season, James remained one of the NBA’s most productive players, averaging 20.9 points, 7.2 assists and 6.1 rebounds for the Lakers.
His arrival instantly elevates Philadelphia into the group of favourites to win the Eastern Conference and compete for the 2026-27 NBA championship.
End of era
James’ departure leaves the Lakers without the face of the franchise for the first time since 2018.
The team is now expected to shift its focus towards building around Luka Dončić and creating long-term roster flexibility after the departure of one of the greatest players in NBA history.
Philadelphia, meanwhile, hopes James can help end the franchise’s 43-year wait for another NBA championship.
The 76ers become the fourth franchise of James’ illustrious career after two spells with the Cleveland Cavaliers, four seasons with the Miami Heat and eight years with the Lakers.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, James is the NBA’s all-time leading scorer and a four-time league MVP. Even at 41, his decision has once again reshaped the NBA landscape.