LeBron James marked his Philadelphia 76ers debut with a composed all-round display as the new-look Sixers spoiled the New York Knicks’ championship celebrations with a 106-100 victory at Madison Square Garden.
The 41-year-old, beginning a record-extending 24th NBA season after his summer move from the Lakers, finished with 14 points, nine rebounds and seven assists. Tyrese Maxey led the way with 28 points while new signing Jaylen Brown contributed 19 points, eight rebounds and six assists on his Philadelphia debut. Joel Embiid added a double-double.
In San Antonio, the Oklahoma City Thunder exacted revenge on the Spurs for last season’s Western Conference Finals defeat, winning 116-104. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 32 points as OKC controlled large stretches of the contest. Jared McCain added 20 points, including six three-pointers.
Victor Wembanyama endured a difficult night for the hosts, finishing with 12 points on just 1-of-13 shooting despite collecting six blocks. The Thunder built a substantial half-time lead and held off a Spurs third-quarter rally to open their campaign with a statement road win.
Elsewhere, the Detroit Pistons staged a dramatic second-half comeback to defeat the Boston Celtics 121-113 in the daytime opener.
