Caitlin Clark could not hide her surprise after LeBron James chose the Philadelphia 76ers in free agency. The Indiana Fever star reacted with humor while discussing the NBA‘s biggest offseason move.
James officially signed a two-year, $8 million contract with Philadelphia. The deal includes a player option and pairs him with Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Jaylen Brown.
Speaking to reporters on Friday, Clark admitted she expected a different outcome. She even joked that her own recruiting effort fell short.
“No way! I just pitched him for the Pacers,” Clark said. “It didn’t get to him fast enough. The 76ers. Wow. Wow.”
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Clark also revealed another preferred destination for the NBA legend. “Selfishly, I wanted the Warriors because Steph [Curry] and LeBron would have been absolutely insane together.”
She praised Philadelphia’s roster while recognizing the Eastern Conference competition. “They have some serious talent on the 76ers,” Clark said. “Arguably, maybe one of the favorites in the East now with the Knicks and obviously my Pacers.”
James enters his 24th NBA season after averaging 20.9 points, 7.2 assists, and 6.1 rebounds across 60 games last year. He accepted a reduced salary to help Philadelphia strengthen its championship roster.
Caitlin Clark expects to follow LeBron James’ season
Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA; LeBron James arrives for the match at DRV PNK Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
Clark admitted the signing caught her completely off guard. She believed Miami or Cleveland were stronger possibilities before James made his decision.
“I thought he was either going to go to Miami or Cleveland, so that’s really shocking,” Clark said. “But I’ll be watching more 76ers games.”
She also made clear her support extends beyond one franchise. “Obviously, I’m a big fan of LeBron,” Clark said. “No matter where he was going to go, I was probably going to cheer for that team and root for them.”
Clark already plans to watch James in person next season. “I’m going to wait for the NBA schedule to come out and make sure I have my tickets reserved.”
Then she added, “Happy for him.”
Caitlin Clark reacts to LeBron James signing with the Sixers 🗣
"I just pitched him for the Pacers. It didn't get to him fast enough! … Selfishly, I wanted the Warriors because Steph [Curry] and Bron would have been absolutely insane together. … I'll be watching more 76ers…
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) July 24, 2026
Meanwhile, Clark continues to enjoy a remarkable WNBA campaign. She averages 21.0 points and 7.9 assists while leading Indiana closer to title contention with a 17-10 record.
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Clark’s reaction reflects James’ wide influence, that even elite athletes remain fascinated by his career decisions. Philadelphia now carries enormous expectations as James pursues a fifth championship in one of basketball’s toughest conferences.