LeBron James said his long-standing friendship with All-Star Tyrese Maxey and a desire to help Joel Embiid win his first NBA title drove his decision to sign a two-year, $8 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers in July. James, 41, revealed details on his "Mind the Game" podcast, saying Philly wasn't a consideration until the Sixers acquired Jaylen Brown from the Boston Celtics. \n\nJames said Maxey was one of the first to recruit him when he became a free agent. He also wants to help Embiid, who has an MVP and scoring titles but no championship. "He's done everything in our league, and the only thing he has not done is win a championship.

And I want to try to help him get that first one," James said. \n\nThe Sixers went 45-37 last season and were swept in the second round by the Knicks. James praised Brown for his unique voice and energy. James will speak at media day Monday in Camden, New Jersey.

He called it "humbling" to play for the Lakers and said Los Angeles remains home. He wants to bring the championship blueprint to Philadelphia, which hasn't won a title since 1983.