A surge of excitement is sweeping through Philadelphia as fans prepare for the Sixers' home opener at Xfinity Mobile Arena, where LeBron James will take the court wearing number 23 for the home team.
Rob Tyson of West Oak Lane says the day feels celebratory.
"It's like Christmas; we're excited here in Philly. LeBron coming to our city, we're all trying to support. We just want the team to do well."
Crowds also stopped by a limited-time Nike pop-up at the Fashion District celebrating James' arrival in Philadelphia.
Inside, designer Shaheed Rucker of Mt. Airy showcased artwork inspired by James' career.
"All the blood, sweat and tears he put into the game and just the duration of his career," said Rucker. "About that journey and about some of his most iconic moments."
Olney native Mikal "The Art Bully" Gibson designed a number of streetwear options for the pop-up.
The focal point is a take on James' silhouette.
"This piece right here is 'From Akron to Broad Street,' examining where he's from, but also shows where he's coming, where he has arrived, which is here, in Philadelphia," said Gibson
James will be wearing a pair of LeBron 24 sneakers; one red, one blue shoe, for the opener.
Fans are stopping at Mitchell & Ness on Walnut Street to prepare for the night.
Jerry Shaen of Washington Square said the moment offered a lift.
"Philly is having a tough sports moment, so the Sixers are proving to make us proud."
"We're down a little bit about the Eagles right now, but we're behind our Sixers now," another fan added.