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The Philadelphia 76ers are intensifying their pursuit of LeBron James, with Tyrese Maxey spearheading a player-driven recruiting effort that also includes Joel Embiid and Jaylen Brown, according to ESPN.
James remains one of the biggest names on the free-agent market, and while his decision has stretched into a second week, Philadelphia continues to make its case both behind the scenes and publicly.
Maxey, Embiid and Brown Make Their Pitch
Sources told ESPN that Maxey has taken the lead in communicating with James. The two share representation through Klutch Sports, and Maxey has previously described the four-time NBA champion as a “big brother” after training with him during several offseasons.
Embiid also has a strong connection with James after helping Team USA win the gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Brown, meanwhile, has built mutual respect with James over the years. The two battled in multiple playoff series when James starred for the Cleveland Cavaliers and Brown played for the Boston Celtics. Earlier this year, James even praised Brown’s MVP-caliber play, saying he deserved more recognition in the award conversation.
Philadelphia hopes those existing relationships can help convince the 41-year-old to continue his career with the Sixers.
Front Office Also Making Its Case
The recruitment extends beyond the locker room.
Bob Myers, president of Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, recently made a public pitch while appearing on the “Game Over” podcast with Rich Paul and Max Kellerman, arguing that Philadelphia gives James his best opportunity to compete for another championship.
Sixers president of basketball operations Mike Gansey echoed that sentiment, revealing he has remained in contact with James’ agent, Rich Paul, since Philadelphia acquired Brown in a blockbuster offseason trade.
“We’d obviously love to have LeBron,” Gansey told The Athletic. “In my opinion, he’s the best player of all time.”
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the 76ers remain among James’ top potential landing spots alongside the Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat.
Decision Still Pending
While speculation continues, James has remained publicly quiet about his plans.
He is scheduled to spend several days in New York this week, making appearances at Fanatics Fest, participating in live recordings of his “Mind the Game” podcast and “The Shop,” and being honored by Time magazine as its “Athlete of the Century.”
As the NBA waits for James’ decision, the 76ers continue to position themselves as one of the strongest contenders for the future Hall of Famer, relying on both organizational leadership and personal relationships to strengthen their pitch.
