HARRISBURG, Pa. — Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro issued a proclamation on Friday declaring July 24 as LeBron James Day. The announcement followed reports that LeBron James has signed with the Philadelphia 76ers.
Shapiro posted the statement on social media. He wrote: “LEBRON IS COMING TO PHILLY. By the power vested in me as the Governor of the great Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and a die-hard Sixers fan... I hereby proclaim today to be LEBRON JAMES DAY. Welcome to the City of Brotherly Love,@KingJames.”
The governor identified himself as both the state’s chief executive and a supporter of the Philadelphia 76ers. The proclamation welcomes James to the team and the city.
James agreed to join the 76ers on a two year contract. The deal uses the veteran minimum exception and includes a player option for the second year. He will play alongside existing roster members including Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.
Shapiro’s statement marks an official state recognition of the signing. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania includes Philadelphia, home of the 76ers franchise. The City of Brotherly Love is a common reference for Philadelphia.
The proclamation comes on the same day as the reported agreement between James and the team. James previously played for the Los Angeles Lakers and informed that franchise of his plans to move on for the 2026-27 season.
State officials and local basketball supporters have noted the development. The 76ers operate in the NBA’s Eastern Conference. James brings experience as a four time NBA champion to the roster.
No additional formal ceremony details were released with the proclamation.