While “King James” undoubtedly has a team of trusted advisors discussing options, communicating with teams, and building packages for the almighty to study, his next “decision” will send him to Philly and here are
10 reasons why.
Salary Cap Space: With over $34 million in cap space, the Sixers may very well be in the best fiscal shape of any NBA team.
Young Nucleus: Reigning rookie of the year and 6’6 point guard, Michael Carter-Williams will happily rack up the assists with LeBron’s presence. And 6’11 big man (and projected #1 pick prior to his injury over a year ago) Nerlens Noel provides the rock behind the defense.
NBA Draft: The Sixers have the third and tenth overall picks in one of the strongest draft classes in years. Almost guaranteed to get Andrew Wiggins or Jabari Parker, either talent would mesh perfectly with LBJ. The tenth pick will add another specialist to the mix, like sharpshooter Doug McDermott or wing scorer Gary Harris.
Coaching Staff: Brett Brown’s mentor was Gregg Popovich, who not only beat the Heat in the finals this year, but also commands a ton of respect from James.
Franchise Leadership: Sixers CEO Scott Oneil was in the meetings when the Knicks tried to lure LeBron to New York three years ago, where he surely gained insight to his heart. And when forward-thinking General Manager Sam Hinkie came to Philadelphia last year, it was clear that the Sixers would embed their strategy into advanced analytics. And, while 22 of the 30 NBA teams have an analytics department, Hinkie sets his strategy apart by pointing out that the data he will be collecting is different from the current data used for player evaluation.
Philadelphia Loves Basketball: It’s been a rough few years for Sixers fans, but the city was a top 5 basketball town in terms of attendance when Iverson starred here. The Phillies are fading and the Flyers remain mediocre. That means the up-and-up Sixers could easily rival the Eagles for top of the town with LeBron.
America’s Next Big Tech Town? Philadelphia has seen major startup growth and millennials are flocking to the city to start businesses. The Comcast Innovation and Technology Center will be the third largest building in the U.S. and create thousands of jobs.
Star Power: Before being dubbed “The King,” LeBron’s favorite players (after Jordan) were Allen Iverson and Dr. J. What better ambassadors to provide a tour of the city and some cheesesteak tasting? Even Charles Barkley likes the idea and put his money where his mouth is when quoted, “If they sign LeBron James I would bet a million dollars within five years they might win the championship. I’m telling you they would be that good.”
Survivor’s Remorse: The title of a scripted TV show LeBron is producing for Starz, the story is based on two men from the streets who attain fame. Premiering this fall, the show isn’t based in LeBron’s hometown of Akron, it’s based in Philadelphia – his next town?
Facilities: The Sixers are breaking ground on a state-of-the-art training facility which is expected to be the biggest and best in the U.S upon completion in 2016.