LeBron James’ powerful Tyrese Maxey comments resurface amid 76ers latest blockbuster move

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LeBron James is officially joining the Philadelphia 76ers, and his previously expressed admiration for Tyrese Maxey is suddenly taking on an entirely new meaning.

James agreed to a two-year, $8 million contract with Philadelphia on Friday, according to ESPN. The stunning deal includes a player option and will place the NBA’s all-time leading scorer alongside Maxey, Joel Embiid and Jaylen Brown.

The decision immediately turned Philadelphia into one of the NBA’s most fascinating championship contenders. It also resurfaced comments James made about Maxey during a January episode of “Mind the Game.” James and Maxey have trained together during recent offseasons, developing a relationship built through demanding early-morning workouts.

“I’ve worked out and trained with him over the last few summers,” James said. “Every morning, 5 a.m., we’re in the gym, 5:30, whatever, in the gym. And you just see his dedication.”

James praised Maxey for consistently arriving on time and embracing every opportunity the 76ers have given him.

“A guy who just loves the game and is taking full advantage of the opportunity in Philly,” James said. “I love the kid.”

LeBron James already knows what Tyrese Maxey brings

Those comments were noteworthy when James originally made them. Following his decision to sign with Philadelphia, they now offer a glimpse into one of the relationships that could help determine whether the Sixers’ star-filled experiment works. James is not joining a stranger in Maxey. He already understands the guard’s work ethic, personality and commitment to improvement.

The praise also extended beyond basketball. James described Maxey as an even better person than player, which he considered especially significant given the 25-year-old’s tremendous ability on the court. Maxey averaged 28.3 points, 6.6 assists and 4.1 rebounds during the 2025-26 season. His emergence as a franchise cornerstone reportedly helped drive Philadelphia’s recruitment of James.

Maxey, Embiid and Brown had been involved in the Sixers’ pursuit, according to ESPN. Maxey’s longstanding relationship with James gave Philadelphia a particularly valuable connection during the process.

MORE: LeBron James ends NBA-wide wait with stunning 76ers decision

76ers assemble a stunning collection of stars

The James signing represents Philadelphia’s latest blockbuster move in an offseason already defined by major changes. The Sixers previously acquired Brown from the Boston Celtics in a deal involving Paul George. Brown, the 2024 NBA Finals MVP, gives Philadelphia another proven playoff performer alongside James, Maxey and Embiid.

James brings championship experience, elite playmaking and another powerful offensive weapon. He averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists and 6.1 rebounds across 60 games during his final season with the Los Angeles Lakers. There will be legitimate questions about how Philadelphia’s stars fit together and whether James and Embiid can remain healthy. James is entering his 24th NBA season, while Embiid’s recent availability has been an ongoing concern.

Still, the upside is impossible to ignore. Philadelphia now has four established stars, including one young guard whom James has personally watched put in the work before sunrise. His resurfaced comments make it clear that joining Maxey is about more than chasing another championship with a talented roster.

James already trusts and respects his new teammate.