PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, a longtime Philadelphia 76ers fan, declared July 24 as LeBron James Day, joining other local leaders in celebrating the basketball star’s impending arrival in Philadelphia.<\/p>\n
Speaking about James joining the 76ers, Shapiro called the move a major moment for the franchise and its fans.<\/p>\n
“We have a championship team we’re putting on the court, and the fact that King James chose us is just amazing,” Shapiro said.<\/p>\n
The governor also encouraged fans to embrace the excitement surrounding the news.<\/p>\n
“Just enjoy the joy in the city of Philadelphia. Folks are fired up. They’re happy, they’re optimistic. They’re proud that of all the different franchises, LeBron chose us. That’s a point of pride,” Shapiro said.<\/p>\n
As part of the celebration, Shapiro issued a proclamation designating July 24 as LeBron James Day. The proclamation highlights the player known as “The Chosen One” and recounts his record-breaking NBA career.<\/p>\n
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker also welcomed James to the city in social media posts.<\/p>\n
“We are absolutely thrilled, honored, and bursting with pride to welcome LeBron James to the City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection,” Parker said.<\/p>\n
“In Philadelphia, we don’t just welcome you to a city-we welcome you into our One Philly Family with open arms and electric energy!” she added.<\/p>\n
City Council President Kenyatta Johnson also praised the move, saying, “LeBron’s arrival is an exciting moment for basketball fans across Philadelphia and another reminder that our city remains a destination for champions. I look forward to seeing him represent Philadelphia with the same passion and excellence that have defined his remarkable career.”<\/p>\n
State Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta joined the celebration as well.<\/p>\n
“Happy LeBron Day, Philadelphia,” Kenyatta said.<\/p>\n
Wearing his favorite 76ers hat, Kenyatta compared James’ arrival to the team’s long-running “Trust the Process” mantra.<\/p>\n
“This is the quintessential trust the process. The process has been long, the process has been windling, but trust the process. King James is on the job,” Kenyatta said.<\/p>\n
The announcement has fueled championship hopes among fans and leaders across Philadelphia, who are eagerly anticipating the start of the season and James’ debut with the 76ers.<\/p>\n
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