In NBA, the legacy of jersey numbers is as much a part of the game as the players themselves. The numbers they wear often carry a story, a tribute, or a personal significance. LeBron James, one of the most influential figures in the sport, has been following his own tradition. His jersey number has been a topic of discussion, which stood as a symbol of respect, and also a nod to the greats who came before him. The recent buzz around LeBron’s jersey number change has stirred up a whirlwind of nostalgia and debate.?
He has switched from #6, which was a tribute to Bill Russell. He’s now sporting #23, famously worn by Michael Jordan. This has sparked conversations about LeBron’s homage to the legends. It also brings into view discussions about his own legacy.?
LeBron’s Jersey: A Tale of Two Numbers
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Throughout the majority of his career, LeBron James donned the iconic number 23 on his jersey. This number holds a special significance for LeBron, as the legendary Michael Jordan wore it. In his own words, ?So when I started playing basketball, I was like: ?Oh man, that two-three looks good. I wanna be able to fly like him,’?
However, in 2010, when James joined the Miami Heat, he made a decision that surprised many. He switched his jersey number from 23 to 6 as a way to pay tribute to another basketball legend, Bill Russell. Russell, a 12-time NBA All-Star, wore the number 6 during his tenure with the Boston Celtics, where he won an incredible 11 championships.
READ MORE: ?Always Been a Part of Me?: LeBron James Reveals Why He Switched to Number 6
Now, as he returns to number 23, fans are now pondering over the significance of this change.
The switch back to 23 is not just a return to his roots, but also a nod to a player who has greatly influenced LeBron’s career. This change has also led fans to revisit some of the most debated moments of LeBron’s career, particularly the so-called “MVP robberies.”?
What’s the biggest MVP robbery in NBA history? pic.twitter.com/okx9Dhi4EU
— Bucketsquad (@BucketSQD) July 14, 2023
The post posed the question, “What’s the biggest MVP robbery in NBA history?”. It also presents a comparison between Derrick Rose, who won the MVP award in 2011, and LeBron James had fans starting intense debates.?
Fans debating MVP robberies?
Fans have been vocal about their views. Many argue that Rose was more valuable to the Chicago Bulls in 2011 than LeBron was to Miami Heat, given the latter’s strong supporting cast.
Rose was way more valuable to CHI in 2011 than Bron was to Miami. Bron had Wade and Bosh, and a lot of vet support. Rose had Noah, Deng, and Jimmy as a rookie before he was Jimmy. Rose deserved it, stop it.
— Gary Miller (@garymillerrrrr) July 15, 2023
?Others point out that LeBron himself acknowledged Rose as the MVP, so debate over.
LeBron HIMSELF said Rose was the MVP before the year ended. Now get out of my mentions 😒 pic.twitter.com/9aqqY8Geca
— Sadeek 🪐 (@SadeekNextWave) July 15, 2023
However, some fans counter that despite Rose’s MVP title, he lost in the playoffs that year.?
But drose lost in the playoffs that year
— D-pologangmac92 (@Dmac252PGMG3) July 15, 2023
The debate continues, with fans arguing the merits of both players and the circumstances of their respective teams.
When people say this was a robbery it lets me know how little they know about basketball.
To inform you
Rose went 3-0 vs lebrons superteam during the reg season
Rose bulls won the 1st seed over bos big 3 miami big 3 dwight magic
Best league record
Only scoring option and more…🤷🏽— Danul (@ThatGuyDanul) July 15, 2023
Another fan believes LeBron deserves it.
We all know that lebron deserve d that mvp not d rpse
But the media didn't like the miami move
So that happened— the beast (@abdulltifalkdr) July 15, 2023
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In the end, LeBron’s jersey number change is more than just a switch of digits.
It’s a journey through his career, a tribute to the legends of the game, and a catalyst for more such debatable moments in NBA history.
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WATCH THIS STORY-?Michael Jordan’s Iconic Poster on Patrick Ewing, Kobe Bryant Dunking on Dwight Howard & Other Dunks That Almost Ended Careers
What are your thoughts on James’ jersey switch? Let us know in the comments!?