LeBron James said it is “going to take some time” for his new team-mates to gel after the Philadelphia 76ers lost their pre-season opener to the Brooklyn Nets, 114-108, in his debut for the club.
The 41-year-old American joined the 76ers in July, and he says this will be his final contract in the NBA after a glittering career. He is entering a record-extending 24th NBA season as the league’s all-time highest points scorer.
Debut performance
James scored 10 points and added four rebounds, five assists and a steal in 18 first-half minutes. Jaylen Brown led the scoring with 18 points.
James played alongside new team-mates Joel Embiid, VJ Edgecombe, Tyrese Maxey and Brown.
“We’re still trying to put each other in the position to be successful and complement each other the best way we can on the floor. But it’s going to take some time,” said James.
“Tonight was a good sample size for us to build on.”
Career milestones
James has won titles with every NBA side he has played for. He claimed two championships with the Miami Heat, one with the Cleveland Cavaliers and another with the Los Angeles Lakers. He left the Lakers this summer after eight years with the franchise.
He has been named the NBA’s Most Valuable Player four times, all between 2009 and 2013, and has been an NBA All-Star for the last 22 seasons running.
James is now aiming to help the 76ers win their first NBA title in 43 years.