In victorious 76ers debut, LeBron James talks smack with Knicks fans after spoiling celebration

A hostile welcome in New York

At the free-throw line early in Tuesday night’s opener, James heard Knicks fans chant, “We don’t want you!” The rejection reflected the possibility that he might have joined New York in free agency; James and agent Rich Paul had identified the Knicks as his first choice if the team had not won the NBA championship last season. James exchanged remarks with fans seated in the lower level. Spike Lee appeared to try to calm the exchange. Philadelphia went on to beat New York, but James said the result did not take away from the celebration for Knicks fans.

James begins season 24

James scored 14 points and grabbed nine rebounds in his first game for the Sixers. His first basket came on an uncontested right-handed layup after Joel Embiid passed to him in the paint.

The NBA’s career scoring leader has started a record 24th season. He is expected to play for Philadelphia over the next two seasons as the team pursues its first championship since 1983.

Philadelphia’s new lineup

James and Jaylen Brown joined Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe in the starting lineup. Maxey scored 28 points, Brown had 19, and Embiid finished with 13 points and 11 rebounds.

The group showed early signs of chemistry. James assisted on Brown’s first points with the Sixers, and Philadelphia ended the third quarter with an 11-0 run. Brown’s second consecutive 3-pointer, at the buzzer, put the Sixers ahead 83-76.

Expectations rise in Philadelphia

The Sixers assembled the lineup over the summer while aiming to win a title. Questions remain about how the players will share ball-handling duties and decide who takes the lead in close games.

Interest in James has spread around Philadelphia: his jerseys are selling quickly, murals have appeared across the city, and more than 10,000 fans attended a public scrimmage. The Sixers’ home opener against Cleveland is Thursday.