Photo: Peter Baba

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro is enjoying the arrival of LeBron James in Philadelphia after reportedly playing a role in the 76ers’ recruiting effort before the superstar made his decision.

According to Puck News, James crossed paths with Shapiro last week while dining at the private ZZ’s Club in New York during Fanatics Fest. Former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton were also at the restaurant when James stopped to greet them.

Shapiro, a longtime 76ers supporter, reportedly took the opportunity to make his own pitch for James to bring his talents to Philadelphia.

Whether that conversation influenced the decision remains unknown, but James ultimately agreed to a reported two-year, $8 million contract with the 76ers, strengthening one of the Eastern Conference’s top contenders.

After the signing became official, Shapiro celebrated on social media by proclaiming July 24 as LeBron James Day in Pennsylvania.

“LEBRON IS COMING TO PHILLY,” Shapiro wrote on X. “By the power vested in the me as the Governor of the great Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and a die-hard Sixers fan… I hereby proclaim today to be LEBRON JAMES DAY. Welcome to the City of Brotherly Love, @KingJames.”

James later explained that winning – not money – was the driving force behind his decision to leave the Lakers.

“I still want to sacrifice. I still want to work. I still want to grind. I still want to compete, to win and to have a chance at the feeling of winning another championship,” James wrote. “I believe I can help make the Philadelphia 76ers a championship team and I am so excited to energize a new fan base and start this incredible journey one last time.”

Gov. Josh Shapiro made a 76ers recruiting pitch to LeBron James before decision https://t.co/5conk0Ard2 pic.twitter.com/vE0MhBYSyF