The NBA confirmed that the 2026-27 regular season will open Tuesday, October 20, with a nationally televised tripleheader on NBC and Peacock. The Knicks eliminated Philadelphia in the second round of last season's playoffs on their way to that championship, adding an extra layer of storyline to the season-opening rematch. He said he believed he could help make the 76ers "a championship team" and expressed excitement about energizing a new fan base for what he called one final run. James' agent, Rich Paul, later said Philadelphia's acquisition of Brown put the team over the top as James' top choice. His move to Philadelphia marks the fourth different franchise of his 24th NBA season, following stints with Cleveland, Miami and Los Angeles.