LeBron James says friendship with Maxey, desire to help Embiid win a title led him to 76ers

Philadelphia 76ers star LeBron James explained his decision to sign a two-year contract worth $8 million with the team in July. The 41-year-old James credited his longtime friendship with Philadelphia guard Tyrese Maxey and his desire to help fellow superstar Joel Embiid win his first NBA championship for his choice. James, who won NBA titles with the Los Angeles Lakers, Miami Heat and Cleveland Cavaliers, said he felt "done" after his 23rd NBA season ended with the Lakers.

However, after a period of family time and strong workouts during the offseason, James decided to continue playing. He added that he felt "Philly was not even a question" until the Sixers made a surprising trade for Jaylen Brown. Maxey played a significant role in James' decision, as they've been friends and workout partners since joining the league.

Embiid, who has been a four-time NBA champion and two-time scoring title winner with the Sixers, has yet to lead the team to an NBA title despite winning an MVP award and Olympic gold medal. James expressed his desire to help Embiid "get that first one" and become a part of the team's "final little piece to help him get over the hump."

The Sixers had a 45-37 record last season, but were eliminated in the second round by the New York Knicks.