James joins Philadelphia 76ers
LeBron James has announced his decision to join the Philadelphia 76ers, a move he described as the “last decision” of his playing career. This comes eight years after a billboard campaign in Cleveland encouraged him to consider Philadelphia. In February 2018, businessman Asher Raphael arranged for three billboards near Cleveland in an effort to attract James to the 76ers. James later joined the Los Angeles Lakers that year, making the initial billboard effort seem unsuccessful at the time.
Raphael, co-CEO of Power Home Remodeling, indicated that the investment from eight years ago has now paid off. He noted that his phone was active with messages from employees, former employees, and friends, all stating that the “process completed.”
The billboard campaign’s origins and impact
The original billboard idea was inspired by the 2017 film Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, and was intended as a lighthearted gesture. The campaign featured messages such as “Philly Wants LeBron” and “Complete The Process,” referencing the 76ers’ strategy of rebuilding to become a contender. A third billboard illustrated how James would fit into the team’s lineup alongside then-starters Dario Saric, Ben Simmons, Robert Covington, and Joel Embiid. Of these players, only Embiid remains with the 76ers.
Raphael considered a new billboard campaign this summer but ultimately did not proceed, as it proved unnecessary. He stated that the goal was to convey Philadelphia’s desire for James and to counter the perception of Philadelphia as an intimidating place for opposing teams. He believes James will be welcomed and enjoy playing in the city.
The billboard initiative also provided name recognition for Raphael’s company and boosted employee morale. Raphael expressed confidence that James’s arrival in Philadelphia, playing alongside Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, Jaylen Brown, and VJ Edgecombe, will benefit the city. The 76ers have not won an NBA championship since 1983.
Raphael stated that Philadelphia has become an “undeniable contender” with James’s decision. He believes that if James helps the team secure a title and trophy after 44 years, the country will recognize the dedication of 76ers fans.
Golden State Warriors’ pursuit and roster considerations
Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry addressed James’s decision to join the 76ers, stating that one should not anticipate outcomes until they materialize due to many variables. Curry also acknowledged the challenges facing the Warriors in the upcoming 2026-27 NBA season, particularly concerning injuries to players like Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody, which alter the team’s dynamics.
The Warriors had been considered a potential destination for James during his free agency deliberations. The prospect of James and Curry, two prominent players of their era, playing together was noted, despite both being past their prime. However, the Warriors’ reported interest in Anthony Davis suggested the organization might have recognized limitations within its roster.
The Warriors’ core players, including Curry, Draymond Green, and Butler, are all in their mid-30s, with Butler recovering from a torn ACL. It was suggested that if James and Curry were younger, a move to the Bay Area might have been more appealing for James. Currently, the Warriors’ roster is described as aging with significant limitations, and the front office reportedly lacked the resources for major upgrades.
In contrast, the 76ers’ roster, built around Embiid, Brown, and Maxey, was considered more attractive from a basketball perspective. With James’s decision finalized, Warriors general manager Mike Dunleavy still has time to pursue other deals for short-term improvements. DeMar DeRozan was previously linked to the Warriors before James chose Philadelphia.
Source: thestar.com
