LeBron James signs two-year deal with Philadelphia 76ers

LeBron James finalized a two-year contract with the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday, July 24, according to ESPN. The agreement is valued at almost $8 million and contains a player option as well as a full 15% trade kicker, reported ESPN’s Shams Charania.

The veteran forward, who spent the previous eight seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers, will return to the Eastern Conference after his free-agency stint. James indicated on social media that he had considered retirement before deciding to continue playing.

"I wasn't ready to announce it, and I knew I needed some time to really decide, but I was pretty sure I played my last game. I was honest at that last press conference when I said I needed to look at myself and decide if I still love this game. I still truly love this game, and I have more to give."

James’ last NBA appearance came on May 11, when he recorded 24 points and 12 rebounds for the Lakers in a 115-110 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder. Reports said other teams, including the Miami Heat, Cleveland Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors, had shown interest.

The 76ers have scheduled two preseason games against the Boston Celtics in October, but James’ participation has not been confirmed. No date has been set for an introductory press conference, and his agent clarified that his son Bronny James is not part of a package deal to join the team.