LeBron James, Jaylen Brown, and their new Philadelphia 76ers teammates are already finding ways to connect away from the court. James attended Brown’s star-studded 30th birthday celebration in Philadelphia alongside Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe. The gathering sparked mixed reactions from fans.

NBA Fans React to LeBron James Joining Jaylen Brown’s Birthday Celebration

Brown celebrated with a black-tie party at VUE on 50, located on the 50th floor of Philadelphia’s Three Logan Square. He hosted the star-studded 30th birthday celebration on Sunday night, six days before his actual birthday on October 24.

Having teammates attend made the occasion more than just a birthday celebration, as Philadelphia’s new-look roster continues to get familiar with one another.

One fan was excited about what the gathering could mean for the team, writing, “TEAM CHEMISTRY THROUGH THE ROOF.”

Another pointed to the history between James and Brown, suggesting that any past tension should not stop them from building a relationship now. “I remember people told me they wouldn’t be able to get over their past beef they are grown [expletive] men,” the fan wrote.

There was a reason some fans had wondered how the two would get along. During the 2024 NBA Summer League, Brown was caught on video appearing to say that Bronny James was not an NBA-level player. Brown later posted a supportive message about Bronny, saying he had the tools to succeed.

In February, James addressed this, saying their relationship had been ‘pretty respectful’ apart from what the former Boston Celtics man said during Summer League. James also indicated that Brown had addressed the situation on social media and that it was all good.

Now, with both players wearing Philadelphia colors, their appearance together at Brown’s party offers a positive sign as they settle into their new roles.

Not every fan, however, was convinced the moment was entirely genuine. One questioned James’ motives, writing, “LeBron’s actions just look so fake to me.”

Another joked about whether James’ son would have made the guest list, asking, “Do you guys think Bronny was invited?”

Brown arrived in Philadelphia in July after spending the first 10 seasons of his NBA career with the Celtics. James officially joined the Sixers later that month after leaving the Los Angeles Lakers. Both are now part of a roster built around championship ambitions, alongside Maxey, Joel Embiid and Edgecombe.

The team has already shown signs of bonding outside of games, including offseason workouts. A birthday party provides another opportunity for teammates to spend time together outside of basketball, which can help a group get comfortable with one another.

The 76ers finished their preseason with a 1-3 record and will take on the defending champions New York Knicks on Tuesday to begin their regular season.