Photo Credit: Getty Images
LeBron James is heading into his 24th NBA season with the Philadelphia 76ers, but things could have looked very different if the New York Knicks had not won the championship in June.
James, 41, revealed Monday that he had seriously envisioned ending his career at Madison Square Garden before the Knicks' title run changed his plans.
"I had visions of playing in [Madison Square] Garden and finishing my career in the Garden," James told ESPN during the 76ers' annual media day. "One of the best places I've ever played."
The four-time NBA champion went even further, calling Madison Square Garden "the No. 1 arena in the world, as far as for a basketball player."
But once New York beat San Antonio to win the title, James said he knew joining the Knicks would bring a level of backlash he did not want.
"But after they beat San Antonio, I was like, 'Hey, I can't.' I couldn't do it," he said.
James also joked that the media and fans would not have allowed him to make the move without plenty of criticism.
"Y'all wouldn't have let me lay that down, at all," he said.
Despite that, James made it clear there were no hard feelings toward New York.
"Much respect to the Knicks, obviously. An unbelievable team, unbelievable players," he said, before giving a shout-out to Knicks star Jalen Brunson. "I love that guy, he's unbelievable. But, yeah, I'm happy where I'm at, and I'm looking forward to it."
Instead, James chose Philadelphia after leaving the Los Angeles Lakers following eight seasons. He said his friendship with Sixers guard Tyrese Maxey was one of the main factors behind the decision, while the arrival of Jaylen Brown also helped make Philadelphia more appealing.
James now has at least two chances to return to Madison Square Garden this season, with the Sixers scheduled to face the Knicks on Oct. 20 and Feb. 27.
And despite choosing Philadelphia, James revealed he will still spend part of his time in New York.
"Both," he said when asked where he would live. "Multiple residences."
The move also means James is leaving behind his son Bronny, who remains with the Lakers. The father and son made NBA history by becoming the first father-son duo to play together in the league.
