LeBron James’ New 76ers Teammate Had Epic Reaction to the King’s Signing: “Really Thought It Was Fake at First”

Dean Wade was just like everybody else when the Philadelphia 76ers signed LeBron James.

LeBron James’ New 76ers Teammate Had Epic Reaction to the King’s Signing: “Really Thought It Was Fake at First”

Dean Wade and LeBron James (Image credits - Heavy Sports and AP News)

The Philadelphia 76ers just had arguably their best summer in terms of acquisitions after trading for Jaylen Brown and signing LeBron James. However, the signing of James has sent shockwaves across the NBA world.

James has played in more seasons than any player in NBA history after completing his 23rd season. The 76ers will represent the fourth and final team of his illustrious career. It was a move many did not see coming, as James had no history or affiliation with the franchise.

However, James’ move didn’t just catch the NBA world by surprise; his new teammates in Philly were shocked as well. Like everyone else, Dean Wade didn’t believe the news at first.

Wade sat down for an exclusive with ClutchPoints and shared his reaction to realizing he was going to be playing alongside the King next season.

I was actually outside playing with my daughter when my wife came out and said, ‘Hey, you need to look at your phone…’ I really thought it was fake at first. I didn’t believe it. I was kind of fanboying at first with how excited I was. I never would’ve thought I would be teammates with LeBron.

Dean Wade on ClutchPoints

Dean Wade is one of the latest additions to the 76ers roster. He joined the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2019 after going undrafted in the 2019 NBA draft. Unfortunately for him, he missed the opportunity to play alongside James as he left the Cavs a year earlier.

However, his prayers have been answered after James signed a two-year deal to join the 76ers. Wade may not be in the starting lineup with James, but they will be expected to share the court every game, as James can depend on him when he needs someone to make an important three-pointer.

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Dean Wade believes 76ers are a championship contender after signing LeBron James

The 76ers have made some big changes to their roster after a disappointing end to their 2025-26 campaign. After beating the Boston Celtics in the first round, they were clean swept by the eventual champions, New York Knicks, in the Eastern Conference Semifinals.

LeBron James, Tyrese Maxey, and Jaylen Brown
LeBron James, Tyrese Maxey, and Jaylen Brown (Image via Chris Johnson Hoops/X)

Since then, the 76ers have traded for Brown and signed James to go along with other acquisitions. After their two big signings, Wade spoke about his move and sees the 76ers as one of the strongest teams heading into next season.

I wanted to go somewhere that was ready to compete and be a title-contending team. And as soon as I made my decision, Jaylen was traded here, and then LeBron joined on as well. That immediately let me know I made the right decision. We are now right at the top of the NBA at either No. 1 or No. 2 expectation-wise.

Dean Wade on ClutchPoints

The expectations surrounding the 76ers is higher than ever. Many even see the upcoming season as a “championship or bust” season for them. They are expected to be the biggest threat to the Knicks’ title defense next year.

The 76ers is the best team Dean Wade has ever played for

Wade has completed seven seasons in the NBA. He has played as a role player throughout his career and has played with some All-Star caliber teammates over the years.

Last season, he played alongside Donovan Mitchell and James Harden as the Cavs reached the Eastern Conference Finals. While they did get clean swept by the Knicks, it was their best postseason run since Wade joined the franchise.

However, Wade has no doubt that the current 76ers roster is the best team he has ever played for.

This is by far the best team I’ve ever been on, and that’s not to talk down about any other team I’ve been a part of.

Dean Wade on ClutchPoints

The 76ers have the most dominant starting five in the NBA with Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe, Jaylen Brown, and LeBron James. With multiple championship winners, Finals MVPs, and league MVPs on the roster, Wade has no doubt that this is the best team he has ever played on before even playing their first game.

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