LeBron James is the gift that just keeps on giving for the Philadelphia 76ers.
Thanks to the star forward's influence, the Sixers have managed to convince their longtime PA announcer to stay on the microphone for at least one more season. There is simply too much excitement heading into the 2026-2027 NBA season for Matt Cord to drop out now.
Matt Cord almost called it a career
For 28 seasons, Cord called Sixers games with high energy, establishing himself as a voice of the franchise.
As the 2025-2026 NBA season was winding down, Cord made it clear that he was calling his final season with the franchise. During the Sixers' 2026 Playoffs, Cord wrapped up what he thought would be his final game--a loss against the New York Knicks in a sweep.
However, LeBron and the exciting Sixers offseason, will give Cord another go-round, as he announced his return to the mic just weeks away from training camp.
"I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity to return to the mic as PA announcer for the 76ers for one more season," Cord said, according to 6ABC. "This is going to be a special year, and I can't wait to be back at Xfinity Mobile Arena with you all. Let's go, 76ers!"
official. ✍️@MattyCord pic.twitter.com/MLsVZV38uJ
— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) September 16, 2026
The LeBron James effect
The moment it bacame clear that the Sixers were going to acquire LeBron James, many fans felt bummed about the idea that Cord wouldn't get to introduce the ex-Laker as a member of the Sixers for the first, and potentially only season of his career.
Cord gave fans a taste of what it might sound like, when he was on the radio at the time, but it just doesn't hit the same when it's in a studio, compared to a packed out Xfinity Mobile Arena in South Philly.
Fortunately, nobody will be left wondering. The 2026-2027 season just got a lot more exciting for the 76ers.
This summer, the team revamped its front office, turning Daryl Morey and Elton Brand into Mike Gansey and Jameer Nelson. The two executives wanted to make an amazing first impression, and they managed to acquire two stars.
Jaylen Brown was acquired from the Boston Celtics, and they managed to get off the Paul George contract in the process. That deal helped the Sixers convince LeBron that they are serious contenders and the right fit for the King, who is hunting for his next title. It might be the final season for guys like LeBron and Cord. The Sixers are hoping to end the drought and deliver the city a title.
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