LeBron James’ decision to join the Philadelphia 76ers has changed the NBA heading into next season, but that change almost happened on a different team.
LeBron’s agent and Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul had made it clear that James was picking from the 76ers, Warriors, Heat, and Cavaliers in the 2026 NBA free agency.
While the 76ers ultimately got his signature, Paul did reveal the team that wound up as essentially the runners-up in the James sweepstakes this summer.
LeBron James’ other leading choice was the Warriors
On an episode of Game Over with Paul and Max Kellerman, the agent discussed the weeks of fake rumors surrounding LeBron, revealing that the decision ultimately came down to either the 76ers or the Warriors, with LeBron choosing Philly.
“This is why I said all that stuff was false, all the speculation. And at the end of the day, these guys are just doing their job. It was a layered decision across the board between Philly and Golden State, and he just really decided on Philly. Adding LeBron with his experience, Nick Nurse has a guy that he can let police the team, so the guys don’t turn on Nick.“
James would’ve been the perfect co-star that Stephen Curry could’ve hoped would wind up on the Warriors this offseason.
However, the front office’s clear failure in creating a roster that was competitive enough to attract James ultimately swung the pendulum in Philadelphia’s favor.
Paul’s admission confirms that the allure of staying in LA and playing alongside his best friends on a non-title team was more attractive for James than joining former teams like the Cavaliers or Heat.
Winning expectations ultimately won out, as James will slot in as the starting power forward on a nearly-complete 76ers roster, as compared to being a thrown-in co-star for Curry on the Warriors while hoping the team makes additional moves to help them be competitive.
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