LeBron James has revealed that the New York Knicks were among the teams he wanted to join during free-agency, with the NBA legend admitting he had pictured himself finishing his career at Madison Square Garden.
James said his eventual choice came down to five teams – the Philadelphia 76ers, Cleveland Cavaliers, Golden State Warriors, Miami Heat and Minnesota Timberwolves.
New York was also under consideration, but the Knicks’ first NBA championship in 53 years ultimately changed his thinking.
“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.”
Knicks title ended James’ interest
James said joining the Knicks after their championship would have created too much outside scrutiny, particularly given the reaction he expected from the media.
“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.”
James instead committed to the 76ers, giving Philadelphia a four-time NBA champion and one of the biggest names in basketball.
His decision comes after the Knicks swept Philadelphia in the second round of last season’s play-offs, winning all four games by an average of 22.3 points.
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