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The parity era in the NBA seems like it could continue. At least, that’s what oddsmakers and bettors appear to believe after LeBron James’ latest decision to join the Philadelphia 76ers. New York’s championship run last month capped a season that extended an unprecedented run of NBA parity, with eight different franchises winning titles in the last eight seasons. There’s at least a reasonable chance now that the run of new champions will continue in 2027, and Philadelphia is just one of the contenders on that list.
AP
LeBron James has signed a two-year deal with the Philadelphia 76ers, joining Bryce Harper as another superstar in the city. Both athletes were teenage phenoms and top draft picks. Harper, who signed with the Phillies, expressed excitement about James' arrival. LeBron's influence extends beyond basketball, with endorsements and a massive global following. His decision to join Philly isn't about money but the desire to compete and win. The 76ers have struggled to advance in the playoffs, but with LeBron, expectations are high. Fans are eager to see if he can lead them to a championship.
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FILE - Oklahoma City Thunder guard Luguentz Dort (5) reacts to a foul in the second half of Game 5 in the Western Conference finals NBA basketball playoffs series against the San Antonio Spurs, May 26, 2026, in Oklahoma City. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez, File)
AP
The Charlotte Hornets general manager Jeff Peterson explained the team's decision to trade star point guard LaMelo Ball, emphasizing the need for sustainability over short-term gains. The Hornets reached the play-in tournament last season but haven't reached the playoffs in more than a decade. Ball, who had a standout season, was sent to the Timberwolves as part of a four-team trade. The deal includes Naz Reid, draft picks, and a record $40.7 million trade exception. While the move has upset many fans, Peterson believes it will provide future flexibility. Peterson said the goal isn’t to get to the play-in or even the playoffs for one year but for sustained success.
AP
Free agent forward Rui Hachimura has agreed to a two-year contract with the Los Angeles Clippers. The deal could be worth $28 million if a team option is exercised, according to a person familiar with the talks. This move would mark Hachimura's third team, after he played for the Washington Wizards and Los Angeles Lakers. His departure from the Lakers would mean all five starters from Game 1 of last season's playoff run will play elsewhere this season. Hachimura averaged 11.5 points and shot 44% from 3-point range last season.
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FILE - Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura, left, drives by Oklahoma City Thunder center Chet Holmgren during the first half of Game 3 in a second-round NBA basketball playoffs series May 9, 2026, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill, File)
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FILE - Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton dunks during the first half of Game 3 in a second-round NBA basketball playoffs series against the Oklahoma City Thunder, May 9, 2026, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill, File)
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FILE - Boston Celtics' Neemias Queta, top, goes up for a dunk over Philadelphia 76ers' Kelly Oubre Jr., right, and Joel Embiid during the first half of Game 4 in a first-round NBA basketball playoffs series April 26, 2026, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum, File)
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Some of Travis Kelce's teammates on the Kansas City Chiefs, retired Philadelphia Eagles Super Bowl-winning brother Jason and other players from around the NFL and other sports are expected to be in attendance for his wedding to pop superstar Taylor Swift. San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle has said he received an invitation and planned to attend. The wedding is slated to take place at Madison Square Garden, the home arena of the NBA's New York Knicks and NHL's Rangers. Swift attended Game 4 of the NBA Finals there, sitting courtside as the Knicks pulled off the biggest comeback at that stage of the playoffs in league history by rallying from down 29 to beat San Antonio.
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FILE - Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James, left, takes a pass as Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander defends during the first half of Game 3 in a second-round NBA basketball playoffs series May 9, 2026, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill, File)