BROOKLYN: LeBron James made his 76ers debut for Philadelphia in a 114-108 pre-season defeat by the Brooklyn Nets at the Barclays Center on Thursday, Geo Super reported.
The 41-year-old — the same age as Cristiano Ronaldo, who can still return to Portugal’s squad — scored 10 points, grabbed four rebounds, provided five assists and recorded one steal in 18 minutes of first-half action as the new-look 76ers fell short in their opening pre-season outing — the Pacers also began pre-season with a win as Tyrese Haliburton returned after 472 days.
James joined Philadelphia in July, signing what he has described as the final contract of his decorated NBA career — the kind of veteran career call Novak Djokovic backed for Jannik Sinner. The league’s all-time leading points scorer is preparing for a record-extending 24th season.
A useful starting point
James shared the court with new team-mates Joel Embiid, VJ Edgecombe, Tyrese Maxey and Jaylen Brown, who led the scoring with 18 points. The 76ers stayed in touch for much of the game but could not close out the Nets in the final quarter.
The four-time NBA Most Valuable Player said his new side still needs time to gel but saw the defeat as a step in the right direction.
“We’re still trying to put each other in the position to be successful and complement each other the best way we can on the floor. But it’s going to take some time,” said James.
“Tonight was a good sample size for us to build on.”
Chasing a title after the LeBron James 76ers debut
James is aiming to bring championship success to Philadelphia as he enters the latest chapter of his remarkable career, much like Shohei Ohtani managing injuries through the Dodgers’ playoff run. He has won NBA titles with every franchise he has represented: two championships with the Miami Heat, one with the Cleveland Cavaliers and one with the Los Angeles Lakers.
He departed the Lakers this summer after spending eight years with the California-based franchise. James won the NBA Most Valuable Player award four times between 2009 and 2013 and has earned All-Star selection in each of the past 22 seasons.
Frequently asked questions
When did LeBron James join the Philadelphia 76ers?
James joined the 76ers in July 2026, signing what he has described as the final contract of his NBA career.
How did LeBron James play on his 76ers debut?
James scored 10 points with four rebounds, five assists and one steal in 18 first-half minutes as Philadelphia lost 114-108 to the Brooklyn Nets in a pre-season game.
Has LeBron James won a title with every team he has played for?
Yes. He won two championships with the Miami Heat, one with the Cleveland Cavaliers and one with the Los Angeles Lakers, and now wants to add a Philadelphia title.
How many NBA seasons has LeBron James played?
James is preparing for a record-extending 24th NBA season, the most by any player in league history.
