LeBron James has already found a high-end solution to one of the logistical challenges of joining the Philadelphia 76ers: commuting between Philadelphia and his home in New York by helicopter.
James completed his first training camp practice with the Sixers on Tuesday before making the trip back to New York. ESPN’s Dave McMenamin reported that a helicopter was heard taking off near Philadelphia’s practice facility while teammate Anfernee Simons was speaking to reporters.
James is expected to divide his time between New York City and Philadelphia throughout the 2026-27 NBA season, a plan that was confirmed Monday.
The two cities are roughly 95 miles apart. A road trip can take around 90 minutes to two hours, while a helicopter journey can cover the distance in approximately 40 to 45 minutes.
The commuting arrangement had been one of the questions surrounding James’ decision to sign with Philadelphia as a free agent during the offseason.
His first opportunity to suit up for the Sixers in a game will come Oct. 5, when Philadelphia hosts the defending champion New York Knicks in a preseason matchup.
James will then make his regular-season debut for the 76ers against the same opponent, facing the Knicks at Madison Square Garden on Oct. 20.
For now, James appears to have found a way to maintain his New York base while beginning his new chapter in Philadelphia — with the commute taking place well above the traffic. (Adrian Co)
