Published July 24, 2026 02:31 PM
LeBron James shook the NBA world, choosing to chase a title with the Philadelphia 76ers next season.
He chose chasing that title over the comfort of playing on very good teams in cities he has been in before — Miami and Cleveland — or teaming up with Stephen Curry in a nostalgia play in the Bay Area. While Philadelphia was always mentioned in discussions and speculation around the league, they probably were fourth on the list of teams executives expected. Yet here we are.
What has been the reaction around the NBA? Well, needless to say, LeBron’s new teammates are pumped.
LeBron himself is pretty pumped and put up a hype video featuring Philly legend Meek Mill.
There were reactions from all over the WNBA All-Star Game, plus South Carolina/USA coach Dawn Staley showed her stripes — she was born in Philly.
Caitlin Clark reacts in real-time to learning LeBron James is joining the 76ers:
“No way! Wow. … I’ll be watching more 76ers games.” pic.twitter.com/GAhbwF6oHw
— Scott Agness (@ScottAgness) July 24, 2026
Other Philly legends also jumped in.
Not everyone was as thrilled with LeBron’s choice.
Nobody wants to play with my man curry man I don’t get it!! All he do is win!! What is going on in the bay!!???
— Micah Parsons (@MicahhParsons11) July 24, 2026
And, of course, the politicians were quick to capitalize.
LEBRON IS COMING TO PHILLY.
By the power vested in me as the Governor of the great Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and a die-hard Sixers fan... I hereby proclaim today to be LEBRON JAMES DAY.
Welcome to the City of Brotherly Love, @KingJames. pic.twitter.com/JHsNkCFyyN
— Governor Josh Shapiro (@GovernorShapiro) July 24, 2026
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