LeBron James scores 10 on 76ers debut as Nets win 114-108

LeBron James made an encouraging start to his Philadelphia 76ers career, recording 10 points, four rebounds and five assists in his preseason debut, but his team’s efforts were not enough to prevent a 114-108 defeat against the Brooklyn Nets.

The NBA superstar featured on Thursday, October 8, delivering his contribution entirely in the first half before sitting out the remainder of the contest. James also recorded a steal in 18 minutes and four seconds on the court.

At 41, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer is embarking on a new chapter after signing a two-year, $8 million contract with Philadelphia in July 2026. His arrival ended months of speculation about his future following an eight-season spell with the Los Angeles Lakers.

The preseason matchup also gave fans an early look at James alongside his new teammates, including Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe and Jaylen Brown, who joined Philadelphia from the Boston Celtics.

Speaking to reporters in the locker room after his debut, James played down the significance of wearing a different uniform, emphasising that the fundamentals of basketball remain unchanged.

“Obviously, I was wearing a new uniform, but the game is the game, and the game is needed to be played on the floor,” he said.

James added that he was pleased to get playing time alongside teammates he had been practising with over the previous week and a half.