For LeBron James, joining the Philadelphia 76ers is a strategic move that puts him in position to compete for his fifth NBA title. There isn’t much time left in the legendary career of LBJ, but one analyst isn’t particularly impressed with his decision to join Philadelphia.
In the season-opening episode of “All the Smoke” on Thursday, Stephen Jackson went so far as to say that James is no longer on the same tier as two of the sport’s all-time greats.
“All the talk you hear about GOATs and pairing him with Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant…for me, Cleveland was the only thing that made sense for me to keep him in that conversation. Going to a team that’s already championship-ready, that’s not what I would look at as the best player in the league challenging himself.”
About to enter an unprecedented 24th NBA season, James is set to team up with former NBA MVP Joel Embiid, up-and-coming court general Tyrese Maxey, and the newly acquired Jaylen Brown, who arrived from the Boston Celtics.
Though the Sixers entered underdogs in their first-round series against the Celtics this past season, they ended up outlasting Boston in Game 7. Their playoff run reignited hope that the Sixers could be relevant once again in the Eastern Conference. With the addition of James, the Sixers now find themselves in the conversation of title contenders.
Even if James does win his fifth ring this season, the GOAT debate featuring him, Jordan, and Bryant will likely continue. Jackson, for one, has made his stance clear.
“You’re Deserving of All the Love”: LeBron James Pens Heartfelt Birthday Message to Wife Savannah
Meanwhile, LeBron James recently had a reason to celebrate.
On Thursday, he took to Instagram to post a birthday message for his wife Savannah.
“Happy birthday my queen!!! We all are ready to celebrate you!! Especially me! You’re deserving of all the love & vibez you’ll receive today & beyond!! Love you [forever and ever]. Let’s get it!”
Back in June 2025, James was heard in a viral clip saying that Savannah wanted him to “retire in the next year or so.”
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