Tyrese Maxey Earns Rare Honor on TIME100 Next List
Philadelphia 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey has secured a spot on the TIME100 Next list, which honors the world’s most influential rising young stars.
The 25-year-old playmaker stands out as the sole active NBA player featured on the global roster. WNBA Rookie of the Year Olivia Miles joins him as the only other basketball representative on the list, a compilation recognizing emerging leaders spanning sports, entertainment, politics, and culture.
LeBron James Authors Personal Profile and Tribute
LeBron James penned the personal profile accompanying Maxey’s selection. The publication named James “Athlete of the Century” in June. The four-time NBA champion revealed that his relationship with Maxey directly influenced his choice to join the Philadelphia 76ers.
The athletes share representation under agent Rich Paul. They have spent their offseasons training together for the past five years.
Building a Partnership Through Summer Work
That sustained summer work laid the groundwork for a partnership that eventually brought James to Pennsylvania.
“Tyrese Maxey improves every single season, and he’s really just at the beginning of his journey,” James wrote in his tribute. “Beyond his growth as a player, I’ve watched him mature enormously as a leader for our team both on and off the court. He’s worked incredibly hard, and it shows.”
Character, Demeanor, and Locker Room Presence
James highlighted Maxey’s steady demeanor as his defining asset. The veteran noted how the guard handles the pressures of the league with consistent optimism.
“Our summer workouts over the last five years and our relationship off the court definitely influenced my decision to come to Philadelphia and join the 76ers,” James added. “Everything that’s happened to him has happened for a reason. His best trait is his character: he’s a special kid, always grounded, never getting too high or too low, always showing up with a smile. It’s a joy to be around him.”
Carrying High Expectations Into the Future
Maxey enters the upcoming phase of his career carrying heavy expectations.
