Philly serious in pursuit of James, says joining is his best chance to win

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

The Philadelphia 76ers have emerged as one of the top destinations for NBA icon LeBron James, who is set to leave the Los Angeles Lakers after officially becoming an unrestricted free agent this summer.

Although several teams have already shown interest in signing the four-time NBA champion, the 76ers publicly pitched their plan to acquire James through Bob Myers, president of sports for Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, the ownership group that manages Philadelphia.

In an episode of the Game Over Podcast with renowned sports analyst Max Kellerman, Myers made a surprise appearance and delivered bold statements about James.

“I’d say, and I honestly believe, that this is your best chance to win,” Myers said.

“You have to decide all the other things that are equally important because it’s his life. He has to play; he has to face the scrutiny of his decision. He’s been through all that.”

According to other NBA analysts, when Myers talks, you just listen.

Myers is considered the architect of the Golden State Warriors dynasty, having served as the franchise’s general manager from 2012 to 2023.

Under his leadership and through his construction of championship rosters, Golden State won four NBA titles, while Myers was twice named NBA Executive of the Year.

During his tenure, Steve Kerr was hired in 2014, and Myers was also behind the decisions to draft Draymond Green, Harrison Barnes, Kevon Looney, and Jordan Poole.

Myers was also responsible for acquiring Kevin Durant in 2016, as well as Andre Iguodala, Shaun Livingston, and Andrew Wiggins.

For Myers, the talent currently on the 76ers’ roster is more than enough to help James achieve his ultimate desire of winning another Larry O’Brien Trophy before ending his career.

A week ago, the 76ers successfully traded for Boston Celtics superstar Jaylen Brown in exchange for veteran forward Paul George and four draft picks.

From foes to teammates, Brown will now form one of the league’s deadliest star cores alongside Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and sensational rookie VJ Edgecombe.

“If it’s about winning, let’s talk about this team,” Myers added.

“You can win here, in Philadelphia. All I can talk about is winning and organizational support. This guy watches basketball more than anybody understands.”

Will Myers’ pitch play a vital role in James’ decision-making?