Archive · 29 Sep 2026
LeBron James Takes Pay Cut to Chase Philadelphia Championship
LeBron James is joining the Philadelphia 76ers for his 24th NBA season.
He agreed to earn much less money than he did with the Los Angeles Lakers.
He said he made this choice because he wants to win another championship.
The 76ers have several excellent players, including Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid, and Jaylen Brown.
James spoke with Maxey many times before deciding to join the team.
Maxey helped him understand the team and how he might fit in.
Philadelphia fans are very excited about the move.
James has not said whether this will be his final NBA contract.
LeBron James joined the Philadelphia 76ers on a reported two-year, $8 million contract.
The 41-year-old accepted a major pay cut from his reported $52 million final-season salary with the Los Angeles Lakers.
James said his main goal is winning another NBA championship with Philadelphia.
His decision was influenced by his friendship and conversations with All-Star Tyrese Maxey.
James joins Maxey, Joel Embiid, and 2024 Finals MVP Jaylen Brown on Philadelphia’s roster.
- Who
- LeBron James and the Philadelphia 76ers, alongside Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid, and Jaylen Brown.
- What
- James joined Philadelphia on a reported two-year, $8 million contract after taking a substantial pay cut.
- When
- The move was announced before James’s record-extending 24th NBA season; Philadelphia opens on October 20.
- Where
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, with the team beginning its season on the road against the New York Knicks.
- Why
- James said he wants to pursue another NBA championship with a roster he believes can contend.
- Contract
- Reportedly two years and $8 million with the Philadelphia 76ers
- Previous salary
- Approximately $52 million in his final season with the Los Angeles Lakers
- Age
- 41
- NBA season
- Record-extending 24th season
- Championship goal
- James said he joined Philadelphia to pursue another NBA title
- Key teammates
- Jaylen Brown, Tyrese Maxey, and Joel Embiid
- Season opener
- October 20 against the reigning champion New York Knicks