LeBron James had several reasons for choosing the Philadelphia 76ers in free agency, but helping Joel Embiid capture the championship that has eluded him throughout his career played a significant role in the decision.
James discussed his move to Philadelphia on the latest episode of the “Mind the Game” podcast. After explaining his relationship with Tyrese Maxey and the impact of the 76ers' surprising trade for Jaylen Brown, James pointed to Embiid as one of the most important factors behind his decision.
“One of the most important to be honest, is the big fella and the only thing that he has not done. And that’s win a championship. And I want to try to help him get that first one.”
Embiid has accumulated nearly every major individual accomplishment during his career in Philadelphia, including an NBA MVP award. However, postseason success has remained the glaring omission from his résumé.
The 76ers' offseason overhaul now gives Embiid another opportunity to change that. Philadelphia added James and Brown to a core already featuring Embiid and Maxey, assembling a star-studded roster ahead of the 2026-27 season.
The question everyone’s been asking all summer finally has an answer… Why Philly?
Tap into the Season 4 Premier out now on our YouTube, @Spotify, or wherever else you get your podcasts. pic.twitter.com/Gg8ojvz6Lc
— Mind the Game (@mindthegamepod) September 25, 2026
LeBron James wants to help Joel Embiid complete ‘The Process'
James believes his championship experience could provide Embiid with something beyond his production on the court. The four-time NBA champion specifically pointed toward the daily preparation and perspective required to make a deep postseason run.
Article Continues Below“He’s been an MVP of our league, has a gold medal, All-Stars, signature shoes, a bunch of money, a beautiful family… he has everything. He has a city on his back, he’s been the process for what 10 years, 12 years, however long he’s been there.”
James then explained how he hopes to contribute to the next stage of Embiid's career.
“I think it’s time now that we dig even deeper into the process and I hope that I can be that final little piece that can help him get over the hump and have him maybe see it a little bit differently than he’s seen it in his career as far as like the day-to-day process what it takes to get there.”
James brings extensive postseason experience to a Philadelphia team looking to turn its talent into a championship. His career includes four championships and runs with multiple franchises, giving him firsthand experience navigating the demands of a title pursuit.
Brown also brings championship experience to Philadelphia, further changing the makeup around Embiid and Maxey.
For James, however, his decision to join the 76ers was about more than simply finding another opportunity to compete late in his career. Helping Embiid finally reach the top of the NBA became part of the appeal.
After years of Embiid carrying “The Process” in Philadelphia, James wants to help him finish it with a championship.