LeBron has a strong first appearance with 76ers

LeBron James knew Thursday night was going to feel different, playing in a game for the Philadelphia 76ers for the first time.

But every first game of a season feels new, even for a player who’s now had 24 of them.

James, who joined the 76ers this summer for his NBA-record 24th season, had 10 points, five assists and four rebounds in the first half, helping the 76ers to a 58-56 lead.

The 41-year-old forward was credited with only one shot from the field in 18 minutes, though was fouled four times and made all eight free throws. James didn’t even attempt a shot until he was fouled on a drive to the basket with 4:54 remaining in the first quarter. But with Philadelphia’s firepower, the NBA’s career scoring leader might not need to look for his offense very much.

The 76ers got a first look at the potent lineup they put together this summer. James and fellow All-Star newcomer Jaylen Brown started with holdovers Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe.

James spent the last eight seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers before signing a two-year deal with the 76ers for the league minimum.

The new guy seemed already in charge in his new locker room, turning the music on loud when he returned from a pregame workout to continue getting ready. His blue 76ers uniform sat folded on the floor next to his chair.

The 76ers have two remaining preseason games, both against the Boston Celtics, who traded Brown to Philadelphia shortly before James signed. The Sixers play their season opener on Oct. 20 in New York, where the Knicks will raise the banner to celebrate their NBA championship.


(AP Photo Pamela Smith)