LeBron James debuts as a Philadelphia 76ers against New York Knicks
A new era for basketball legend LeBron James began Tuesday night when James made his regular season debut with the Philadelphia 76ers.
James stepped into his new era on one of the world's biggest stages, Madison Square Garden, competing against the 2026 NBA champions, the New York Knicks.
James announced in July that he would join the 76ers for his 24th NBA season, after playing eight seasons for the Los Angeles Lakers.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver told ABC News Monday that James competing at such a high level in his 24th season in the league is a "testament to his work ethic."
"It's a great lineup that he'll be joining in Philadelphia," Silver said of James, later adding, "I'm really looking forward to seeing that team. There's so much anticipation around the league this year for just a lot of great competition."
James made his preseason debut with the 76ers on Oct. 8, and on Tuesday night wore a 76ers jersey for the first time in a regular season game.
"Obviously, I was wearing a new uniform, but the game is the game, and the game is needed to be played on the floor,” James said after his preseason debut, according to The Associated Press.
Just two days after playing the Knicks, James will make his home regular season debut with the 76ers on Thursday against his former team, the Cleveland Cavaliers.
The game will air on ESPN.
Two months later, on Christmas Day, James will face off against his most recent former team, the Lakers, and his son Bronny James.
In addition to the Lakers and the Cavaliers, LeBron James also previously played for the Miami Heat.
He is a four-time NBA champion, four-time MVP and the NBA's all-time leading scorer.
James signed a two-year deal with the 76ers.
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