Charles Barkley believes LeBron James has continued a familiar pattern by joining another star-studded roster after agreeing to sign with the Philadelphia 76ers.
Speaking on The Stephen A. Smith Show, Barkley said James has consistently surrounded himself with elite talent throughout his career.
“The number one knock on LeBron for older guys like myself has always been, yo, man, you always stacking your team. He stacked it in Miami. He stacked it in Cleveland. He stacked it in LA. Now he’s stacking it in Philly. So that to me, I’m going to still have the same criticism I’ve always had,” Barkley said.
James’ arrival also generated excitement across Philadelphia’s sports scene.
Eagles star Saquon Barkley welcomed the NBA legend on social media.
“Welcome to the city? Let me know when you tryna tee it up @KingJames.”
Phillies slugger Bryce Harper, who publicly recruited James before free agency, praised Philadelphia as an ideal destination for athletes.
“It’s obviously a great city to come play in, fanbase-wise, sports-wise. Feel like the city is in a really good spot with all the teams right now. Just a really good spot to be in,” Harper said.
NBA stars react to LeBron James’ shocking decision to join 76ers https://t.co/a9TggGoDqG pic.twitter.com/gEbbTNJC5e
— New York Post (@nypost) July 25, 2026
