LeBron James appeared to clash with a New York Knicks fan who could have been cheering for the King on opening night had circumstances allowed.

On Tuesday night, James began his NBA record 24th season with a new team as the 76ers tipped off the opening night of the 2026-27 campaign at Madison Square Garden. The 41-year-old faced a hostile reception, with fans chanting “We don’t want you” when he took to the free-throw line.

James, whose Polymarket deal far outweighs his NBA contract, was also seen in a heated exchange with a fan who appeared to be heckling him about leaving the Los Angeles Lakers. He seemingly replied: “I’m not from the West Coast.

“I’m from Ohio, baby, f--- is you talking about?!”

However, James revealed during the 76ers’ media day that the Knicks were once the team he pictured himself finishing with, until they won it all.

“I had visions of playing in Madison Square Garden and finishing my career in the Garden,” James told ESPN.

“One of the best places I've ever played. I think it's the No. 1 arena in the world, as far as for a basketball player. But after they beat San Antonio, I was like, 'Hey, I can't.' I couldn't do it.”

James was referring to the Knicks' run to their first title in 53 years, a championship that ultimately shut the door on what had been his preferred free agency destination. The four-time NBA champion then revealed the decision ultimately came down to five teams: the 76ers, Cleveland Cavaliers, Golden State Warriors, Miami Heat, and Minnesota Timberwolves.

Incidentally, joining the championship-winning Knicks would have left James exposed to criticism he was not ready to take on in the twilight of his career.

“Y'all wouldn't have let me lay that down, at all," James said, referring to the media. “But much respect to the Knicks, obviously. An unbelievable team, unbelievable players. Shout out, Jalen Brunson. I love that guy, he's unbelievable. But, yeah, I'm happy where I'm at, and I'm looking forward to it.”

James’ agent, Rich Paul, had already hinted at the dynamic over the summer on his Netflix podcast, saying: “If the Knicks hadn't have won the title, there would be no board of teams. He'd be going to the Knicks.”

With the Knicks off the table, James chose to sign a two-year deal worth $8 million with the 76ers. His lower contract allowed him to sign with Philly, joining a lineup that includes Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe, Jaylen Brown, and former MVP Joel Embiid.

The Knicks pursued James in free agency multiple times over the years. But it seems finally winning the gold means New York has no appetite for the King, who instead turned to the rival 76ers. And the fans showed there is no love lost for James.