After a three-year hiatus, Michael Jordan had intentions of making a comeback to the NBA in 2001. To assist him in setting up, he gathered a few of his closest buddies and old fellow players for a clandestine scrimmage. LeBron James, a 16-year-old freshman in high school, was one of the athletes that was invited to attend.
James was an eagerly awaited prospect who had already won the Gatorade National Player of the Year accolade. He was pumped to gain insight from Jordan since he had grown up idolizing Jordan. Now that he was finally meeting him in person, he was over the moon to connect with him.
James was instantly riveted as he walked into the scrimmage. Jordan had been his role model since he was a young boy. Jordan approached James and offered him some counsel. He mandated him to fixate all his focus on his jump shot and footwork. Additionally, the most valuable thing that LeBron got from the meeting was MJ’s phone number. This meant that he could contact the legendary player any time he wanted to.
Jordan’s counsel shaped James to a degree where he revealed that it was “like listening to God speak.” He paid close scrutiny to Jordan’s insight and implemented it to aid him to flourish into one of the best basketball players in history.
Hence, James headed off to take pleasure in an NBA career that earned him a spot in the Hall of Fame. He walked away with four NBA titles and four MVP honors. He is regarded by many as one of the greatest NBA players ever. Michael Jordan’s brief phrases of wisdom were the impetus for the entire event.
Did Michael Jordan congratulate LeBron James on passing him on the NBA scoring list?
Jordan and James have been hailed as two of the most outstanding basketball players in history, and their fierce rivalry has endured as one of the most vitriolic in sports history. However, Jordan has always been complimentary of James and has never been reluctant to acknowledge his outstanding achievements.
Jordan said, “Congratulations to LeBron on this incredible achievement. It’s a testament to his hard work, longevity, and his great skill. I’ve always respected his game and I’m proud to see him succeed. This is just another chapter in his story and I can’t wait to see what he does next.”
Michael Jordan Congratulates LeBron for Passing Him On All-Time Scoring: The GOAT has spoken … Michael Jordan is giving props to LeBron James after passing him on the NBA’s all-time scoring list … calling it “another great milestone.” King James jumped over the Jumpman with… pic.twitter.com/rrA5hGfdIe
— – (@COUPSLEADER) March 7, 2019
Jordan once more exhibits his reverence for James. He compliments LeBron and pertains to him as a “great player” who has “hard work, longevity, and skill.” He added that James’ victory made him “proud” as well.
Jordan’s sentiments serve as a reminder that he and James consistently admire one another despite their fierce rivalry. James’ propensity to garner the adulation of one of the greatest basketball players in history is another evidence of his brilliance.