Photo: Peter Baba

The Los Angeles Clippers reportedly made a serious push to sign LeBron James this offseason, offering the veteran forward a one-year contract worth more than $20 million that would have allowed him to remain in Southern California.

According to ESPN, the Boston Celtics also expressed interest in James despite the long-standing rivalry between the future Hall of Famer and the franchise.

Throughout his career with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat and Los Angeles Lakers, James faced Boston in seven different playoff series.

Ultimately, James chose the Philadelphia 76ers, where he’ll continue competing against one of his biggest postseason rivals in the Eastern Conference.

Philadelphia’s acquisition of Jaylen Brown early in free agency also played a role in James’ decision, as the former Celtics star’s arrival helped pave the way for the four-time NBA champion to join the 76ers.

Clippers, Celtics Pursued LeBron James In Free Agency https://t.co/f5IzfmVGV2