Tyrese Maxey’s rise in Philadelphia has reached beyond the box score. The 76ers guard has been selected for TIME100 Next 2026, landing in the list’s leaders category as one of 100 emerging influential figures across sports, business, politics, entertainment, science and technology.
| TIME100 Next 2026 | Maxey’s entry |
|---|---|
| 100 rising figures recognized | Leaders category |
| Five summers training with LeBron James | Relationship helped bring James to Philadelphia |
Leadership has become part of Maxey’s profile
The recognition arrives with Maxey’s leadership carrying more weight inside the Sixers’ locker room. LeBron James, Philadelphia’s newest addition, said Maxey’s development as a person and teammate was a meaningful factor in his decision to sign with the club during free agency this past summer.
James said Maxey has improved every year as a player but stressed that his growth as a leader has stood out just as much. He pointed to Maxey’s work away from games, his steady approach around the team and the way that effort has translated on the floor.
The two guards have trained together during the offseason for five years, giving James a close view of Maxey’s progression. Their relationship beyond basketball, James said, helped pull Philadelphia into the picture when he chose his next team.
James sees a steady presence in the locker room
James described Maxey as grounded, consistently upbeat and difficult to rattle, whether the moment calls for celebration or a reset. He said Maxey’s character remains his defining trait and called the 76ers guard a pleasure to be around.
For James, the next step is collective. He said it will be on Maxey’s teammates to keep challenging him as he continues to grow, adding that he is glad to be part of that push in Philadelphia.
