LeBron James scored 14 points in his debut for the Philadelphia 76ers, leading the team to a 106-100 victory against the defending champions, the New York Knicks, on opening night of the NBA season. At 41 years old, James is starting his record-extending 24th season with his fourth team following his summer transfer from the LA Lakers. He also contributed seven assists in the win.
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Tyrese Maxey was the top scorer for the 76ers, netting 28 points, while Jaylen Brown, who joined the team in a high-profile trade for Paul George from the Boston Celtics, scored 19 points along with eight rebounds and six assists.
Before the game, the Knicks celebrated their recent championship, unveiling their third title banner at Madison Square Garden before an audience that included well-known fans Ben Stiller and Spike Lee. Despite their title celebrations, the Knicks were unable to secure a win, having previously ended a 53-year championship drought by defeating the San Antonio Spurs in last season's NBA Finals.
Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 21 points, and Karl-Anthony Towns contributed 19 points and 12 rebounds. James commented on his performance, stating, "I could be a lot better. Still getting my rhythm, obviously just a little bit over two weeks with the new squad. I think we played exceptionally well, especially defensively."
In other games on the opening night, the Detroit Pistons overcame the Boston Celtics 121-113, with Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren each scoring 22 points. The Celtics' Paul George tallied 38 points in his debut. In the final game, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 32 points for the Oklahoma City Thunder, who defeated the Spurs 116-104. Victor Wembanyama of the Spurs struggled offensively, making just one basket from 13 attempts but managed to secure 13 rebounds and six blocked shots.