LeBron James has played in countless NBA games, but there was something different about this one. The King took the court in a Philadelphia 76ers jersey for the first time, and, even with just 18 minutes of pre-season action, he gave fans plenty to talk about.James finished with 10 points, four rebounds and five assists, converting his only field-goal attempt and going a perfect eight-for-eight from the free-throw line. He did not return after halftime, but that did little to dampen the excitement surrounding his debut.First LeBron chalk toss in a Sixers uniform 🚨 Sixers/Nets in preseason action is LIVE NOW on NBA League Pass! https://t.co/Jg1TzhhCFT— NBA (@NBA) October 8, 2026 After the game, James admitted that wearing a different jersey felt unusual, even if the game itself remained familiar."It feels different. Obviously, I'm wearing a different jersey, but basketball is still basketball," he said. "I'm glad I got to play tonight with the guys I've been practising with over the last two weeks."Philadelphia, however, still needs time to find its rhythm."We're still trying to learn what works for everyone. Each of us has to be successful while fitting in with the strengths of the others," James explained. "We need time. This was a good game, and we have to keep building on the foundation we laid tonight."##EDITORS_CHOICE##James was not the only player making his debut, with Jaylen Brown also featuring alongside Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid and VJ Edgecombe. The group represents Philadelphia's projected starting five for the upcoming season.With two pre-season games remaining, both against the Boston Celtics, head coach Nick Nurse plans to give his starters more minutes in at least one of those outings. ESPN reports that the most likely opportunity will come in the final game before the regular season begins.03.00: (1.70) Chicago (14.5) Memphis (2.30)Nurse was particularly impressed by what James brought to the floor, highlighting the veteran's passing ability."He's an incredible passer. You saw it tonight, passes across the court, through the defence, no-look passes. He was finding teammates making their cuts, and it was all really good," Nurse said. "I thought he played a good game."