LeBron James made his preseason debut with the Philadelphia 76ers at Xfinity Mobile Arena on Thursday. They, however, lost to the Brooklyn Nets, 114-108.
James sat out their preseason opener, a win against the New York Knicks, 120-97, at the same venue.
Against the Nets, the 41-year-old forward tallied 10 points, four rebounds, five assists, and one steal in 18 minutes. He is continuing to build chemistry with his new teammates as he enters his 24th season.
After the game, he was asked about Dean Wade, and James gave the ultimate compliment.
“He fits on any basketball team on the planet. You gotta have guys like that,” said the four-time champion in a video posted by the Sixers Wire's Ky Carlin.
LeBron James on Dean Wade: “He fits on any basketball team on the planet.” #Sixers pic.twitter.com/JMv2KBJhIV
— Ky Carlin (@Ky_Carlin) October 9, 2026
Wade had seven points and four rebounds in 16 minutes off the bench against the Nets.
The 76ers signed the 29-year-old Wade to a four–year, $39 million contract in the offseason, envisioning him as a key piece of the second unit. He was even penciled in as a starter until James joined the team.
Article Continues BelowBefore arriving in Philadelphia, he spent seven years with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Last season, he averaged 5.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.5 assists in 59 games. He shot 36.2% from the three-point line.
His length, shooting, and high IQ will be valuable assets to the 76ers, who may have concerns about their depth. He is also a versatile defender.
James' stamp of approval should only boost Wade's confidence as he tries to play a consistent role on the 76ers.
Philadelphia will continue its preseason schedule on Saturday against the Boston Celtics.