NEW YORK — The Philadelphia 76ers' pursuit of Jaylen Brown this summer ultimately led them to sign LeBron James ahead of the 2026-27 season. Then, the 76ers spoiled ring night for the defending champion New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden, beating them 106-100 on Opening Night.

James discussed how Brown's presence impacts the 76ers, as both made their debuts against the Knicks.

“It's just another guy who can hold guys accountable,” James said. “Because they understand. They see that the guy has gotten to the finish line and beyond the finish line and beyond the finish line; went through the rope. It's very helpful. These guys that have been here, trying to get to that point. Obviously, it's a marathon.

“You're not going to do it on day 1 or day 4, 5, 6, 7 — whatever the case may be. But the experience that we have, and the experience that we've brought to the ball club, hoping we can translate it to wins. And more of a culture of how you prepare mentally.”

76ers All-Star Jaylen Brown finished with 19 points on 7-for-14 attempts, including a pair of threes, eight rebounds, six assists, and one steal. LeBron James added 14 points, nine rebounds, seven assists, one steal, and one block for the 76ers. Brown, who also finished with one block and one steal, helped keep the Knicks at bay.

Brown's buzzer-beating 3-pointer extended the Sixers' lead to seven (83-76) before the final frame, as the 76ers held the Knicks to 18 points after halftime. After the win, 76ers veteran Joel Embiid discussed the significance of having a player of Brown's caliber on his team.

“Just a competitor on both ends, offensively/defensively. So, it's great to have him,” Embiid said. “After all those battles all these years, it's great to have him on the team.”

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The 76ers will host the Cleveland Cavs in their home opener on Thursday.