LeBron James is back to news mill following his “Today’s not the day” speech. And this time, it’s The Chosen One’s jersey numbers that are hogging headlines. During his two-decade-long decorated career, James has worn 23 and 6 on his back. Both the numbers have helped him win two titles each. And now heading to his 21th season this year, James has decided to switch back to 23 for the Los Angeles Lakers.

The all-time leading point scorer has been in the league since 2003. He chose the number 23 in honor of his idol Michael Jordan. Moreover, the Akron Hammer has always shown respect to the legends of the game. Recently an almost 20-year-old photograph of him alongside Lakers legend Magic Johnson and a 5’3″ rapper from his hometown went viral. Fans took to social media after noticing a bizarre difference between LeBron James and the rapper.

LeBron James in a throwback picture

Prior to 2003, James was the biggest sensation even before coming into the league. There were expectations of him that he has exceeded in his 20 years ongoing career. While he’s had two stints with the Cleveland Cavaliers, recently one of his former teammates from the Cavs side shared his “Front row seat” experiences of seeing him do wonders on the court as a teammate.

The same year, 2018, after a crushing clean sweep at the hands of the Stephen Curry-led Golden State Warriors, LeBron James signed a lucrative 4-year, $154 million deal with the Los Angeles Lakers. The announcement was celebrated, especially with GM Magic Johnson’s support.

At the time, rapper Bow Wow seized the opportunity to share an old photograph with Johnson and King James. While some fans found it heartwarming, others were surprised.

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Five years later, the picture has resurfaced online, sparking lively banter among fans.

“That ball looks like a toy in Lebron’s hands”

The photograph in itself looked strange, considering the size of the balls that the rapper and James were holding. Both hold the same sized ball but the difference lies in their grip. Bow Wow’s palm seemed like a tiny arm holding an enormous basketball. Upon seeing this image, one fan said, “I can’t explain it but Lil Bow Wow looks like an alternate universe Steph Curry.”

Another fan said, “This a cold stat for no reason” 

One fan added, “That ball looks like a toy in Lebron’s hands.”

Another fan couldn’t believe his eyes before verifying it on the internet.

One user went on to claim the fault in the balls given to them.

Using a women’s youth-size ball reference, one fan brought a bizarre comparison with the balls.

Another fan couldn’t help but bring Kevin Hart into the conversation.

The picture might have created an amusing online response, but the big grip itself suggests The King’s hold on his game. Twenty years later, he’s not only refusing to hang his shoes, but looks eager for more glories.

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But one thing is for sure, the strange comparison between the rapper and Kid from Akron shows the coming of age story. And no wonder fans are loving it.