LeBron James’ decision to join the Philadelphia 76ers has left many around the NBA surprised, but according to Dan Le Batard, the Miami Heat are especially eager to understand how the deal came together.
Speaking on The Dan Le Batard Show, the longtime Miami media personality said people connected to the Heat have been asking how Philadelphia convinced James to sign a reported two-year, $8 million contract despite Miami reportedly being willing to offer much more.
“The Heat are curious how it is that the Sixers did this,” Le Batard said.
Le Batard then floated a speculative theory involving Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin, the former 76ers minority owner who remains close with Joel Embiid.
He questioned whether James’ arrival could benefit Fanatics, particularly if the four-time champion embarks on a farewell tour after recently appearing at Fanatics Fest NYC.
There is no reported evidence that Rubin or Fanatics provided James with any improper financial incentive, and Le Batard’s comments were presented as speculation rather than fact.
Philadelphia’s recruitment, however, was well documented.
ESPN reported that team president Mike Gansey stayed in regular contact with James’ agent, Rich Paul, while Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid and Jaylen Brown all reached out directly to the NBA’s all-time leading scorer.
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro also reportedly joined the recruiting effort after meeting James in New York.
The campaign ultimately paid off, as James chose the 76ers over the Heat, Cavaliers, Warriors and Timberwolves, giving Philadelphia another superstar for what is expected to be the final chapter of his career.
Heat furious over LeBron snub as wild 76ers conspiracy theory emerges https://t.co/lwpjnJ1EZy pic.twitter.com/vRWZ0EK6WU
— New York Post (@nypost) July 24, 2026
