LeBron envisioned joining Knicks but nixed idea after historic title

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  Dave McMenaminSep 28, 2026, 12:56 PM ET

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  • Lakers and NBA reporter for ESPN.
  • Covered the Lakers and NBA for ESPNLosAngeles.com from 2009-14, the Cavaliers from 2014-18 for ESPN.com and the NBA for NBA.com from 2005-09.

CAMDEN, N.J. -- LeBron James said his free agency decision came down to five teams: the Philadelphia 76ers, Cleveland Cavaliers, Golden State Warriors, Miami Heat and Minnesota Timberwolves.

But there was another team James had planned to join -- before that franchise ended a 53-year championship drought in June: the New York Knicks.

"I had visions of playing in [Madison Square] Garden and finishing my career in the Garden," James told ESPN on Monday during the 76ers' annual media day. "One of the best places I've ever played.

"I think it's the No. 1 arena in the world, as far as for a basketball player. But after they beat San Antonio, I was like, 'Hey, I can't.' I couldn't do it."

James said that the potential backlash from joining the Knicks after they had won the title rendered the idea a non-starter.

"Y'all wouldn't have let me lay that down, at all," James said, referring to the media at large. "But much respect to the Knicks, obviously. An unbelievable team, unbelievable players. Shout out Jalen Brunson. I love that guy, he's unbelievable. But, yeah, I'm happy where I'm at and I'm looking forward to it."

The Knicks swept the Sixers in the second round in May, winning by an average of 22.3 points per game.

James will get two chances to play in the Garden during the regular season: Opening Night on Oct. 19 and on Feb. 27 -- plus potentially more if there is a postseason rematch.

And he will still get time in New York, even though he's playing for the Sixers.

James told ESPN that he will split his time living between the Big Apple and the City of Brotherly Love.