Philadelphia 76ers forward LeBron James faced a lively crowd during the team’s NBA season opener against the New York Knicks on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, in New York. Knicks fans, fresh from celebrating their NBA championship victory, greeted James with chants of “We don’t want you!” as he prepared to take free throws. The reaction stemmed from a scenario where James might have played for the Knicks had New York not won its first NBA championship since 1973 the previous season.
Despite the hostile reception, the 41-year-old James helped lead the Sixers to a 106-100 victory. He interacted with fans, including an attempt by Spike Lee to reduce tensions, scoring 14 points and grabbing nine rebounds. Tyrese Maxey contributed 28 points, while Jaylen Brown added 19, and Joel Embiid recorded 13 points and 11 rebounds, aiding in the Sixers’ win during the Knicks’ celebration.
Reflecting on the game, James acknowledged the significance of the Knicks’ banner-raising moment for fans, drawing a parallel with a championship drought he helped end in Cleveland. James’s first basket for the Sixers was a straightforward layup, signaling many more ahead as he embarked on his 24th NBA season.
The Sixers showcased their new potent lineup, which includes fellow All-Star Jaylen Brown, combined with holdovers Embiid, Maxey, and VJ Edgecombe. Questions remain about how the starting five, each accustomed to being a primary ballhandler, will share responsibilities. However, they demonstrated strong chemistry, particularly during an 11-0 run in the third quarter, highlighted by Brown’s buzzer-beating three-pointer.
The excitement surrounding James’s arrival in Philadelphia has been palpable. His jerseys have been selling quickly, murals of him are appearing throughout the city, and he drew over 10,000 fans for a public scrimmage. The offseason changes have transformed the Sixers, seen during their visit to the Garden, contrasting with their playoff performances earlier in the year.
Coach Nick Nurse expressed optimism for the season, praising the team’s dynamic. For James, the primary motivation is securing a fifth NBA title, a pursuit eagerly anticipated by Philadelphia fans.
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