LeBron James left Madison Square Garden with a big smile as the Philadelphia 76ers won their opening night clash and spoiled the New York Knicks’ ring night.
While the evening began with the Knicks receiving championship rings in front of the 76ers and LeBron, it ended with Philadelphia picking up a 106-100 win to start a highly anticipated season off with a win.
LeBron ended the night with 14 points, nine rebounds, seven assists, one steal and one block, playing a supporting role to star guard Tyrese Maxey and fellow debutant Jaylen Brown.
LeBron James speaks openly minutes after 76ers secure win over Knicks
James gave a courtside interview minutes after the 76ers had secured the win, complimenting the 76ers on playing ‘exceptionally well’ defensively while reiterating his goal on the 76ers is to solely be a winner.
“I feel a lot better; I still need to get my rhythm. Just been over two weeks with the new squad, but I like the way we played. I think we played exceptionally well, especially defensively. We didn’t shoot the ball well, but we have capable shooters.”
“Winning. I am just trying to make plays to win; I’m very familiar with every scenario this game has offered. I am blessed to still be playing at this level, and blessed to play in this building here; it’s so special.”
James also revealed how it felt to ruin another team’s ring night, beating the Knicks on a historic day for the franchise.
“I do. It’s pretty special.”
The 76ers have another challenging Eastern Conference clash up next, facing LeBron’s old hometown team, the Cleveland Cavaliers, on October 22. They will rematch with the Knicks on October 30 in their NBA Cup opener against the defending champions.
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