LeBron James reported to Philadelphia 76ers media day on Monday and immediately emphasized the work required to turn a talented roster into a championship contender.
James joined the 76ers this summer on a two-year minimum contract with a player option for the second season, moving to Philadelphia after six seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers. He said his early conversations with the organization have shown a shared commitment to improving every day.
“We all want to put the work in,” James said. “Nothing can happen unless you actually put the work in. So we all are all speaking the same language. Everyone is highly motivated.”
The 41-year-old also discussed his role as the veteran leader of a team featuring Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, Jaylen Brown and several younger players.
“I have a lot of experience in this game obviously,” James said. “I hope that I could bring that experience, bring that knowledge, bring the blueprint to guys that’s trying to accomplish some things that they haven’t done in their career.”
James said he is approaching his 24th NBA season without looking too far ahead. Asked whether his one-plus-one contract could represent the final contract and final stop of his career, he said his focus remains on his current opportunity.
“I’m just looking at it every single day on how I can be the best version of myself for this franchise while I’m here,” James said. “I can’t, I don’t want to speak into the future right now. I think that would be doing a disservice to myself on just living in the moment.”
James also outlined the mentality he plans to bring during difficult stretches. He said the 76ers will need to avoid overreacting to results and instead concentrate on their daily work.
“You never get too high, never get too low,” James said. “You got to try to stay even keel.”
He added that accountability, honest conversations and preparation will be essential, particularly for a team attempting to build chemistry with several new pieces.
“The work that we put in will take care of itself,” James said. “Guys will just have to, you know, guys will hold each other accountable.”
One of James’ priorities will be helping Embiid maximize his opportunity. The two were teammates during the 2024 Olympics, and James said Embiid has put significant work into his body, game and mental preparation this offseason.
“For him it’s just been about health,” James said. “How can he stay healthy to be the best version of himself, be the best version of himself to be the best version of us as a team.”
James also pushed back on the idea that rookie VJ Edgecombe’s role should necessarily shrink following his arrival. Edgecombe averaged 16.0 points, 5.6 rebounds and 4.2 assists in 75 games last season.
“I don’t understand why things would change for him,” James said. “I don’t think his role should change.”
Instead, James believes the entire roster may need to make smaller sacrifices for the team to reach its potential.
“If we’re trying to do something special, which I believe we are, then that’s a positive,” James said.
Ultimately, James said the 76ers cannot expect their collection of talent to immediately produce results. Building chemistry will require repetition, time and a willingness to embrace difficult work.
“In order for us to be great, we have to do things that are just not comfortable,” James said. “We have to be comfortable being uncomfortable.”
He added: “I didn’t leave my family to leave to lose in the second round. I know that for sure. So, work needs to be done and I’m ready to put the work in.”
