LeBron James has revealed that the New York Knicks were among the teams he wanted to join during free-agency, with the NBA legend admitting he had pictured himself finishing his career at Madison Square Garden. James said his eventual choice came down to five teams the Philadelphia 76ers, Cleveland Cavaliers, Golden State Warriors, Miami Heat and Minnesota Timberwolves.New York was also under consideration, but the Knicks first NBA championship in 53 years ultimately changed his thinking.I had visions of playing in [Madison Square] Garden and finishing my career in the Garden, James told ESPN on Monday during the 76ers annual media day. One of the best places Ive ever played.I think its the No. 1 arena in the world, as far as for a basketball player. But after they beat San Antonio, I was like, Hey, I cant. I couldnt do it.Knicks title ended James interestJames said joining the Knicks after their championship would have created too much outside scrutiny, particularly given the reaction he expected from the media.Yall wouldnt have let me lay that down, at all, James said, referring to the media at large. But much respect to the Knicks, obviously. An unbelievable team, unbelievable players. Shout out Jalen Brunson. I love that guy, hes unbelievable. But, yeah, Im happy where Im at, and Im looking forward to it.James instead committed to the 76ers, giving Philadelphia a four-time NBA champion and one of the biggest names in basketball.His decision comes after the Knicks swept Philadelphia in the second round of last seasons play-offs, winning all four games by an average of 22.3 points. Topics LeBron James New York Knicks Philadelphia 76ers Add us as a preferred source on Google If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read NBA: Knicks take on LeBron James 76ers on opening night Mitch Fretton 11th August, 2026 NBA: Durant claims 76ers a championship-winning team after signing LeBron James Mitch Fretton 2nd August, 2026 NBA: Philadelphia 76ers officially welcome LeBron James to East Coast Mitch Fretton 27th July, 2026 BREAKING: LeBron James signs with Philadelphia 76ers for 2026-27 NBA season Mitch Fretton 24th July, 2026 Miami Heat post link to LeBron James introductory press conference before deleting Jon Fisher 22nd July, 2026 NBA: LeBron James agent says former Lakers star will not be rushed into picking new team Mitch Fretton 21st July, 2026
