LeBron James has achieved everything during his NBA career, but Tuesday night saw the 41-year-old experience something for the first time ever.
LeBron James and the Philadelphia 76ers spoiled ‘banner night’ at Madison Square Garden by beating the New York Knicks 106-100 on Tuesday night. The King played 34 minutes on his debut with his new team, racking up 14 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists.
James is considered by many to be the NBA GOAT. He has won championships, MVPs, and made more All-Star appearances than a person can count on their fingers and toes combined. But the latest Sixers win brought him a unique taste of success which has eluded LBJ so far.
LeBron James finally won an NBA debut game with a new team, he had lost all four before
The Sixers are the fourth NBA franchise that James has played for. He was drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers, moved to the Miami Heat before returning to the Cavs and then playing a majority of the last decade with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Hard as it is to believe, Philly’s win against New York is the first time LeBron has experienced a win during his debut with a team. His first-ever game for Cleveland resulted in a 106-92 loss against the Sacramento Kings. He did not fare better the second time around either, with the Knicks playing spoiler on his return to his hometown franchise in 2014. That game ended as a 95-90 loss.
James’ controversial decision to move to Miami meant all eyes were on the Heatles’ debut in 2011. The team lost 88-80 against the Boston Celtics. And during his first game as a Laker, despite an iconic highlight dunk, James and his young teammates succumbed to a 128-119 loss against the Portland Trail Blazers.
Considering his age, this was likely the last opportunity LBJ had to break this curse and he finally did it. The Sixers are off to a great start to the season after a win over the Knicks, and it could set the tone for what LeBron will be hoping is another championship season.
Read more: