LeBron James has sparked huge excitement in the basketball world by joining the Philadelphia 76ers. Now, he appears to be close to wrapping up an agreement with ESPN. He’s in the final stages of negotiations for a documentary that would track his upcoming season and possibly his final one in the NBA. The documentary is expected to follow the same format as Michael Jordan’s famous 'The Last Dance,' blending new footage with rare and unseen moments from James' long and storied career.
The deal's fine print
Sources tell The Athletic that James and ESPN are deep into finalizing the details. Talks are at the 'one-yard line,' meaning a deal is almost signed. However, the financial numbers are still under wraps. ESPN has not commented, and neither have James' representatives. If the deal is finalized, cameras would capture his life as a 76er. The documentary would also pull in footage from his entire career—from his high school days to the pros—offering fans a rare, in-depth view of his journey.
When could it air?
James signed a two-year contract with the 76ers. He has the option to leave after one season. That makes it unclear whether he'll play both years or retire after the 2026-27 season. The timing of the documentary likely depends on his final decision. If he stays for both years, the series might reflect a longer journey. If he decides to retire, it could center on his final season, much like Jordan's. The 76ers, like the Bulls in Jordan’s last year, are aiming to win a title. A championship would make the documentary even more meaningful.
History and hope
'The Last Dance' became a huge hit when it aired in 2020. The 10-part series followed Jordan through his final season with the Chicago Bulls. It earned an Emmy and brought the team's legacy back into the spotlight. James is hoping to create a similar impact with his own story. But unlike the Bulls, the 76ers won't face a dramatic breakup. The team’s goal is a solid finish with a title in hand, not a painful split. James wants to end his career with a win and a compelling documentary that captures the moment, leaving fans with a lasting memory.